2005 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 275 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Santana |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
