1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1972 Plymouth Valiant
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Plymouth Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Plymouth Valiant would be higher. At 5,562 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Plymouth Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Plymouth Valiant (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Plymouth Valiant should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Plymouth Valiant weights approximately 279 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Plymouth Valiant 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 1972 Plymouth Valiant. 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, 1972 Plymouth Valiant (401 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1972 Plymouth Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1972 Plymouth Valiant | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Plymouth |
| Model | A | Valiant |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1687 cc | 5562 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 102.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2750 mm |
