2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1973 Reliant Rebel
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Reliant Rebel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Reliant Rebel would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1973 Reliant Rebel. (31 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1973 Reliant Rebel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 495 kg more than 1973 Reliant Rebel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Reliant Rebel 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 1973 Reliant Rebel. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Reliant Rebel. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Reliant Rebel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 1973 Reliant Rebel | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Reliant |
| Model | A | Rebel |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2270 mm |
