2005 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE (169 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE weights approximately 15 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | SE |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
