2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1970 Opel Manta
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Opel Manta would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Opel Manta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1970 Opel Manta. (89 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1970 Opel Manta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 195 kg more than 1970 Opel Manta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Opel Manta 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 1970 Opel Manta. 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, 1970 Opel Manta (146 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1970 Opel Manta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1970 Opel Manta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Manta |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.2 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
