1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1964 Trabant P 601
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Trabant P 601. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Trabant P 601 would be higher. At 1,898 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1964 Trabant P 601. (23 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1964 Trabant P 601. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1435 kg more than 1964 Trabant P 601. 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Trabant P 601. (53 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Trabant P 601. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1964 Trabant P 601 has manual transmission. 1964 Trabant P 601 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1964 Trabant P 601 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Trabant |
| Model | A | P 601 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1898 cc | 595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 53 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 7.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 100 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 3560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2030 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 24 L |
