2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1986 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Opel Rekord (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Opel Rekord 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 20 kg more than 1986 Opel Rekord.
Because 1986 Opel Rekord 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 1986 Opel Rekord. 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 (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Opel Rekord. (182 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Opel Rekord. 1986 Opel Rekord 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. 1986 Opel Rekord will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1986 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 77.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1306 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 65 L |
