2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1978 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 640 kg more than 1978 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Nissan Skyline 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 Nissan Skyline. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1978 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | A | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
