1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 13 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 5,500 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 452 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1125 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S (829 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 669 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A | S |
Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1689 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 58 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 829 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 2245 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 5245 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1872 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 3165 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 90 L |