2011 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1978 Buick Century. (110 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1402 kg more than 1978 Buick Century. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Buick Century 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 1978 Buick Century. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1978 Buick Century (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | 1978 Buick Century | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Buick |
| Model | A | Century |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 3788 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2832 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2760 mm |
