1981 Ford Capri vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 25 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Capri (158 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Capri should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 460 kg more than 1981 Ford Capri.
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, 2006 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, 1981 Ford Capri (221 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Capri will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Capri | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Capri | A |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |
