2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1972 Plymouth Valiant
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Plymouth Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Plymouth Valiant would be higher. At 5,562 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Plymouth Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Plymouth Valiant (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Plymouth Valiant should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Plymouth Valiant weights approximately 304 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 1972 Plymouth Valiant 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 1972 Plymouth Valiant. 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, 1972 Plymouth Valiant (401 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Plymouth Valiant 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 | 1972 Plymouth Valiant | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Plymouth |
| Model | A | Valiant |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5562 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2750 mm |
