1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2011 Honda Civic
To start off, 2011 Honda Civic is newer by 14 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Honda Civic (197 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Honda Civic weights approximately 193 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, 2011 Honda Civic (188 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2011 Honda Civic 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 2011 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 2011 Honda Civic 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 | 2011 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
| Model | A | Civic |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1313 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4458 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1397 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 50 L |
