2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1978 Porsche 924
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 Porsche 924. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Porsche 924 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Porsche 924 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Porsche 924 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 185 kg more than 1978 Porsche 924.
Because 1978 Porsche 924 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 Porsche 924. 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 (310 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Porsche 924. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Porsche 924.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1978 Porsche 924 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | A | 924 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 61 L |
