1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 5,786 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL (367 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 279 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 860 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL (530 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | CL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 5786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 367 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 173 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.2 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 88 L |
