2002 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1966 Wartburg 312
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 2,084 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 312. (37 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 235 kg more than 1966 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | 1966 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
| Model | A | 312 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2084 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 43 L |
