1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Cadillac Escalade
To start off, 2012 Cadillac Escalade is newer by 15 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Cadillac Escalade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Cadillac Escalade (403 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 315 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Cadillac Escalade should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Cadillac Escalade weights approximately 1524 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 2012 Cadillac Escalade 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 2012 Cadillac Escalade. 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, 2012 Cadillac Escalade (565 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 385 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Cadillac Escalade 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 | 2012 Cadillac Escalade | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Cadillac |
| Model | A | Escalade |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 403 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 565 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 2619 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 5662 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2009 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1857 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 3302 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 117 L |
