1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2001 TVR Speed 12
To start off, 2001 TVR Speed 12 is newer by 4 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 7,730 cc (12 cylinders), 2001 TVR Speed 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 TVR Speed 12 (790 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 702 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 TVR Speed 12 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 95 kg more than 2001 TVR Speed 12.
Because 2001 TVR Speed 12 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 2001 TVR Speed 12. 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, 2001 TVR Speed 12 (881 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 701 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2001 TVR Speed 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2001 TVR Speed 12 has manual transmission. 2001 TVR Speed 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2001 TVR Speed 12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | TVR |
| Model | A | Speed 12 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 7730 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 790 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 881 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 57 L |
