2002 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1971 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Rekord 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 79 more horse power than 1971 Opel Rekord. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 169 kg more than 1971 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Opel Rekord 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 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Rekord. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | 1971 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2084 cc | 1492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1026 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2670 mm |
