2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1985 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (123 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 246 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 1985 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 1985 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, 1985 Pontiac Firebird (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 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 | 1985 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | A | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1898 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
