2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1971 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1971 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 854 kg more than 1971 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Opel Ascona 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 Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1971 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 61 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1764 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2440 mm |
