1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2010 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Routan 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Routan (251 HP) has 192 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 976 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volkswagen Routan (351 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 2010 Volkswagen Routan 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. 2010 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2010 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Routan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 251 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 2096 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 3.9 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 6.6 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 78 L |
