1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1982 Renault 5
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,687 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Renault 5 (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Renault 5 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 125 kg more than 1982 Renault 5.
Because 1982 Renault 5 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 1982 Renault 5. 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, 1982 Renault 5 (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1982 Renault 5 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 | 1982 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | A | 5 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1687 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.1 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 51 L |
