1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Sentra 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Sentra (140 HP) has 81 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 238 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 Nissan Sentra (199 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Sentra 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 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | A | Sentra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| 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 | 59 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4575 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1511 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 3.9 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 6.6 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
