1981 Austin Marina vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1981 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 215 kg more than 1981 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Marina. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1981 Austin Marina has manual transmission. 1981 Austin Marina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Marina | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Marina | A |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2430 mm |
