1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 10 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 6,208 cc, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (508 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 420 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 825 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (630 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 450 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | CLS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1687 cc | 6208 cc |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 508 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 102.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
