1988 Lada Samara vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 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 1,697 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1988 Lada Samara. (64 HP @ 5550 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1988 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 401 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lada Samara. (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Lada | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Samara | A |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 924 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2570 mm |
