1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1978 Volkswagen Citi
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Citi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Citi would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Citi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. (94 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 172 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. 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, both vehicles can yield 150 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 1978 Volkswagen Citi | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Citi |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 948 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |
