2002 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1978 Peugeot 304
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Peugeot 304 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 74 more horse power than 1978 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 245 kg more than 1978 Peugeot 304. 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 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Peugeot 304. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1978 Peugeot 304 has manual transmission. 1978 Peugeot 304 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | 1978 Peugeot 304 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Peugeot |
| Model | A | 304 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2084 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 42 L |
