2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1978 Opel Rekord
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 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (64 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Opel Rekord weights approximately 60 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1978 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 1978 Opel Rekord. 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 (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (126 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1978 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
