1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1979 Simca 1308
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Simca 1308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Simca 1308 would be higher. At 1,898 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1979 Simca 1308. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1979 Simca 1308. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1010 kg more than 1979 Simca 1308. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Simca 1308. (107 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Simca 1308. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1979 Simca 1308 has manual transmission. 1979 Simca 1308 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 | 1979 Simca 1308 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Simca |
| Model | A | 1308 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1898 cc | 1292 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 58 L |
