1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (451 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 393 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1712 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 440 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A | C |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1689 cc | 6208 cc |
Horse Power | 58 HP | 451 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 600 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 102 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.8 seconds | 4.6 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 2832 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4720 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1490 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1800 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 66 L |