1979 Isuzu 117 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Isuzu 117. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Isuzu 117 would be higher. At 2,236 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Isuzu 117 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu 117. (72 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu 117. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Isuzu 117 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1979 Isuzu 117 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 1979 Isuzu 117. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu 117. (139 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu 117.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu 117 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Isuzu | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 117 | A |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2236 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 139 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2430 mm |
