1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 118 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Cavalier | A |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 54 L |
