1998 McLaren F1 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 McLaren F1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 McLaren F1 would be higher. At 6,063 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 McLaren F1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 McLaren F1 (618 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 510 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 McLaren F1 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1654 kg more than 1998 McLaren F1.
Because 1998 McLaren F1 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 McLaren F1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1998 McLaren F1 (649 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 399 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1998 McLaren F1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 McLaren F1 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | McLaren | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F1 | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 6063 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 618 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 649 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1176 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2570 mm |
