2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1981 Pontiac 1000
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac 1000 would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac 1000. (64 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 315 kg more than 1981 Pontiac 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Pontiac 1000 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 1981 Pontiac 1000. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac 1000. (109 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1981 Pontiac 1000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | A | 1000 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2400 mm |
