2005 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1984 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1984 Opel Rekord. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1984 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 125 kg more than 1984 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 Opel Rekord 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 1984 Opel Rekord. 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 (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Opel Rekord. (143 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | 1984 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2680 mm |
