1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 305 kg more than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2010 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | S | A |
Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2034 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 157 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1305 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 54 L |