2003 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1988 Renault 19
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 19. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 19 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1988 Renault 19. (79 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 19. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 80 kg more than 1988 Renault 19. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 19. (107 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 19. 1988 Renault 19 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Renault 19 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz A | 1988 Renault 19 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | A | 19 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
