2005 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1974 Reliant Rebel
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Reliant Rebel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Reliant Rebel would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1974 Reliant Rebel. (31 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1974 Reliant Rebel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 580 kg more than 1974 Reliant Rebel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Reliant Rebel 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 Reliant Rebel. 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 (185 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Reliant Rebel. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Reliant Rebel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | 1974 Reliant Rebel | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Reliant |
| Model | A | Rebel |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 60.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2270 mm |
