1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Dacia Duster
To start off, 2012 Dacia Duster 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 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dacia Duster (104 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dacia Duster should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dacia Duster weights approximately 80 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Dacia Duster. (148 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Dacia Duster. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2012 Dacia Duster has manual transmission. 2012 Dacia Duster 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 | 2012 Dacia Duster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dacia |
| Model | A | Duster |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 164 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.8 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4315 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1822 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2673 mm |
