1988 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 435 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mercedes-Benz G | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G | A |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
