1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1440 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 Mercedes-Benz 200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200. (112 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 has automatic transmission and 2012 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 200 | A |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 130 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 29.4 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 5.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
