2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire
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 Oldsmobile Starfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire would be higher. At 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire. (130 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire weights approximately 28 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire 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 Oldsmobile Starfire. 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 Oldsmobile Starfire (332 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1979 Oldsmobile Starfire 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 Oldsmobile Starfire | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Oldsmobile |
| Model | A | Starfire |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 4997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
