2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1971 Volkswagen 1302
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 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 2,032 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 520 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volkswagen 1302 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 Volkswagen 1302. 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 @ 3500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen 1302. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1971 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | 1302 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2032 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
