1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1981 Renault 14
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 14. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 14 would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1981 Renault 14. (57 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 14. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 230 kg more than 1981 Renault 14. 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 @ 1600 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 14. (92 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 14. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1981 Renault 14 has manual transmission. 1981 Renault 14 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 | 1981 Renault 14 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | A | 14 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1218 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 69 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 48 L |
