1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1996 Toyota Carina
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 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota Carina would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota Carina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (101 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Carina. (82 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Carina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota Carina weights approximately 180 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
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, 1996 Toyota Carina (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Toyota Carina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1996 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | A | Carina |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2590 mm |
