2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1972 Porsche 914
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Porsche 914. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Porsche 914 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Porsche 914 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 300 kg more than 1972 Porsche 914.
Because 1972 Porsche 914 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 1972 Porsche 914. 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, 1972 Porsche 914 (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 Porsche 914 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1972 Porsche 914 has manual transmission. 1972 Porsche 914 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 1972 Porsche 914 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | A | 914 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
