1988 Lada Samara vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lada Samara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lada Samara 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 18 more horse power than 1988 Lada Samara. (70 HP @ 5550 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1988 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 175 kg more than 1988 Lada Samara. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lada Samara. (117 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lada Samara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lada Samara | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Lada | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Samara | A |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 1687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2430 mm |
