1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1981 Toyota Corona
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Corona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Corona would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Toyota Corona (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Toyota Corona should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 135 kg more than 1981 Toyota Corona.
Because 1981 Toyota Corona 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 1981 Toyota Corona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Toyota Corona. (135 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Toyota Corona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 1981 Toyota Corona | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | A | Corona |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2530 mm |
