2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1989 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Nissan Laurel (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Nissan Laurel 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 1600 kg more than 1989 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1989 Nissan Laurel 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 1989 Nissan Laurel. 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 (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1989 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | A | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2680 mm |
