1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1970 Toyota Publica
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Toyota Publica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Toyota Publica 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 50 more horse power than 1970 Toyota Publica. (38 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1970 Toyota Publica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 420 kg more than 1970 Toyota Publica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Toyota Publica is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1970 Toyota Publica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Toyota Publica. (62 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Toyota Publica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1970 Toyota Publica | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | A | Publica |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 3680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2170 mm |
