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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 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 1737 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 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. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 2832 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
