1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (217 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 466 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Express.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Express 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 1997 Chevrolet Express. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1997 Chevrolet Express (379 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2012 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Express | A |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4997 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 379 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2364 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2570 mm |
