1981 Ford Capri vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Capri 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 37 more horse power than 1981 Ford Capri. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 235 kg more than 1981 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Capri 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 Ford Capri. 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 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (85 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Capri | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Capri | A |
Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 85 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 69.2 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2570 mm |