1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan is newer by 16 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), 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan weights approximately 449 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, 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan (281 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Tiguan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1544 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4427 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1809 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1683 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2604 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 64 L |
