2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1982 Skoda Rapid R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Skoda Rapid R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Skoda Rapid R would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1982 Skoda Rapid R. (62 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1982 Skoda Rapid R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 420 kg more than 1982 Skoda Rapid R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Skoda Rapid R 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 1982 Skoda Rapid R. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Skoda Rapid R. (99 Nm @ 2850 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Skoda Rapid R.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 1982 Skoda Rapid R | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Skoda |
| Model | A | Rapid R |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1287 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 47 L |
