1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (228 HP) has 169 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 776 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | A |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1896 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
