1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1966 Trabant P 601
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Trabant P 601. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Trabant P 601 would be higher. At 1,689 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 65 more horse power than 1966 Trabant P 601. (23 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1966 Trabant P 601. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 480 kg more than 1966 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 @ 1600 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 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 1966 Trabant P 601.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1966 Trabant P 601 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Trabant |
| Model | A | P 601 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 53 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 7.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 3560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2030 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 24 L |
