1985 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 25 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 3,839 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1245 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S.
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, 2010 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 (316 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz S | 2010 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | A |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3839 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2570 mm |
