2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1990 Skoda Rapid R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Skoda Rapid R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Skoda Rapid R would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 390 kg more than 1990 Skoda Rapid R.
Because 1990 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 1990 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 (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 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 1990 Skoda Rapid R. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1990 Skoda Rapid R has manual transmission. 1990 Skoda Rapid R 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 | 1990 Skoda Rapid R | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Skoda |
| Model | A | Rapid R |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 62 HP |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 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 | 60 L | 47 L |
