2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1978 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1978 Ford Cortina. (86 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 165 kg more than 1978 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ford Cortina 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 1978 Ford Cortina. 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 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Cortina. (141 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Cortina. 1978 Ford Cortina has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Ford Cortina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1978 Ford Cortina | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
Model | A | Cortina |
Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 86 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 141 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4380 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |