1988 Austin Maestro vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Austin Maestro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Austin Maestro would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1988 Austin Maestro. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1988 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 105 kg more than 1988 Austin Maestro. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Austin Maestro. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Austin Maestro | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maestro | A |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 54 L |
