1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2003 Honda Z
To start off, 2003 Honda Z is newer by 6 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 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (59 HP) has 8 more horse power than 2003 Honda Z. (51 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2003 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 160 kg more than 2003 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Honda Z is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Honda Z will offer significantly more control. 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 Mercedes-Benz A (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Honda Z. (61 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Honda Z. 2003 Honda Z has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Honda Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2003 Honda Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
| Model | A | Z |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 654 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 51 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 64 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 3410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 35 L |
