1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1973 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Opel Ascona (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Opel Ascona should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 210 kg more than 1973 Opel Ascona.
Because 1973 Opel Ascona 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 1973 Opel Ascona. 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 (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Ascona. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1973 Opel Ascona has manual transmission. 1973 Opel Ascona 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 | 1973 Opel Ascona | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | A | Ascona |
Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 58 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 90 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 61 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 910 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4140 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2440 mm |