1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 would be higher. At 6,329 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 weights approximately 1675 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600. 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 (500 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 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 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | 600 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 6329 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 103 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 2770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 6250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 3910 mm |
