1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 273 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 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 2012 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 Volkswagen GTI | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | A | GTI |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
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 | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.8 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1393 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4213 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1501 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |