2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1972 Plymouth Valiant
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Plymouth Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Plymouth Valiant would be higher. At 3,678 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Plymouth Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1972 Plymouth Valiant. (109 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1972 Plymouth Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Plymouth Valiant weights approximately 35 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1972 Plymouth Valiant 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 1972 Plymouth Valiant. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Plymouth Valiant. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Plymouth Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1972 Plymouth Valiant | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Plymouth |
| Model | A | Valiant |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 3678 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 104.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
