2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 690 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 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Mercedes-Benz G 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 | 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | G |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2860 mm |
