2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1971 Toyota Sprinter
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Toyota Sprinter. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Toyota Sprinter would be higher. At 1,697 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1971 Toyota Sprinter. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1971 Toyota Sprinter. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 460 kg more than 1971 Toyota Sprinter. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Toyota Sprinter 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 1971 Toyota Sprinter. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Toyota Sprinter. (118 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Toyota Sprinter.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1971 Toyota Sprinter | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | A | Sprinter |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1407 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2340 mm |
