1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (362 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 695 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A | C |
Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5441 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 362 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 510 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1715 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4620 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |