2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 weights approximately 243 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | 350 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 65.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2470 mm |
