1996 Nissan Sentra vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Sentra would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Sentra. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 135 kg more than 1996 Nissan Sentra. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Sentra. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Sentra. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1996 Nissan Sentra has manual transmission. 1996 Nissan Sentra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Nissan Sentra | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Nissan | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sentra | A |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2430 mm |
