1980 Austin Marina vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (90 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1980 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 345 kg more than 1980 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Austin Marina 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 1980 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (140 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Marina. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Marina | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Marina | A |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 69.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2570 mm |
