2005 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1100 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A | S |
Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 2215 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2870 mm |