1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2004 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2004 Toyota Prius is newer by 7 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (101 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2004 Toyota Prius. (77 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2004 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Toyota Prius weights approximately 280 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Toyota Prius. (115 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Toyota Prius. 2004 Toyota Prius 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. 2004 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2004 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | A | Prius |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 77 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 13.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
