1983 Ford Fiesta vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Fiesta 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 (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 650 kg more than 1983 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fiesta | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | A |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 54 L |
