2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 would be higher. At 6,329 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 weights approximately 1545 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 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 Mercedes-Benz 600. 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 (500 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 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 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | 600 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 6329 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 103 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.2 mm | 95 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 2770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 6250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3910 mm |
