2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1971 Volkswagen K 70
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 K 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen K 70 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 (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 276 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen K 70.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1971 Volkswagen K 70 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | K 70 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1604 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.2 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 45 L |
