2005 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1977 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Pontiac Firebird (125 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 450 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 1977 Pontiac Firebird 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 1977 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1977 Pontiac Firebird (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1977 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | 1977 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | A | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1395 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2750 mm |
