1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1985 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,838 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (135 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Pontiac Firebird 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 688 kg more than 1985 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1985 Pontiac Firebird 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 1985 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1985 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1985 Pontiac Firebird 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 | 1985 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | A | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1898 cc | 2838 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
