2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW would be higher. At 6,328 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW (395 HP @ 5160 RPM) has 314 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 76 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW. 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW (600 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | CW |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 6328 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 395 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5160 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1120 mm |
