1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 190 (182 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 190 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 190 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 190. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 190 (235 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 190 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | 190 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2670 mm |
