1983 Ford Mustang vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1983 Ford Mustang. (88 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 10 kg more than 1983 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Ford Mustang 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 1983 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Mustang. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1983 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1983 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Mustang | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Mustang | A |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2294 cc | 2084 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2780 mm |
