2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1954 Oldsmobile 98
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Oldsmobile 98. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Oldsmobile 98 would be higher. At 5,320 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Oldsmobile 98 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Oldsmobile 98 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1954 Oldsmobile 98 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 45 kg more than 1954 Oldsmobile 98.
Because 1954 Oldsmobile 98 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 1954 Oldsmobile 98. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1954 Oldsmobile 98 (407 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1954 Oldsmobile 98 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1954 Oldsmobile 98 has manual transmission. 1954 Oldsmobile 98 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1954 Oldsmobile 98 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Oldsmobile |
| Model | A | 98 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 5320 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 5400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3210 mm |
