2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,462 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (296 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 680 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (563 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 412 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | A | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 7462 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 563 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 76 L |
