1985 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 540 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz S | 2003 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | A |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2600 mm |
