1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Kia Soul
To start off, 2012 Kia Soul 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 Kia Soul (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Soul should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Soul weights approximately 66 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, 2012 Kia Soul (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Soul 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 Kia Soul | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
Model | A | Soul |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 58 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4850 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1186 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1610 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2550 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 48 L |