1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2006 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2006 Cadillac BLS is newer by 9 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Cadillac BLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Cadillac BLS (174 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 405 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.
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, 2006 Cadillac BLS (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac BLS 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 | 2006 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Cadillac |
| Model | A | BLS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 173 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.2 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 58 L |
