1978 Renault 4 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 650 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (72 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 4 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 4 | A |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
