2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1981 Renault 5
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 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Renault 5 (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Renault 5 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 735 kg more than 1981 Renault 5.
Because 1981 Renault 5 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 Renault 5. 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 (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 5. (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1981 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | A | 5 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.2 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 51 L |
