1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1985 Skoda L
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 Skoda L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Skoda L would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (101 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1985 Skoda L. (57 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1985 Skoda L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 135 kg more than 1985 Skoda L. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Skoda L 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 Skoda L. 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 (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Skoda L. (90 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Skoda L.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1985 Skoda L | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Skoda |
| Model | A | L |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1219 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |
