1984 Ford Capri vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Capri would be higher. At 1,687 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 16 more horse power than 1984 Ford Capri. (72 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 85 kg more than 1984 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 Ford Capri. 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 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Capri. (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Capri | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Capri | A |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 54 L |
