2003 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1976 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,593 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Nissan Skyline (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 40 kg more than 1976 Nissan Skyline.
Because 1976 Nissan Skyline 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 1976 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1976 Nissan Skyline (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1976 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz A | 1976 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | A | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2520 mm |
