2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1974 Toyota Century
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Toyota Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Toyota Century would be higher. At 3,376 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Toyota Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1974 Toyota Century. (157 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1974 Toyota Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Toyota Century weights approximately 490 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1974 Toyota Century 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 1974 Toyota Century. 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 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Toyota Century. (271 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Toyota Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1974 Toyota Century | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | A | Century |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 3376 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| 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 | 1765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2870 mm |
