1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1978 Opel Rekord
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 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (64 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Opel Rekord weights approximately 160 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1978 Opel Rekord 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 Opel Rekord. 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 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (126 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1978 Opel Rekord has manual transmission. 1978 Opel Rekord 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 | 1978 Opel Rekord | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | A | Rekord |
Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2260 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 64 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1255 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4600 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2690 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |