1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 (245 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 29 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 (399 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | A |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 245 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 399 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1666 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
