1983 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,839 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 440 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | A |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3839 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2720 mm |
