1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1996 Pontiac Trans Sport
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Trans Sport. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Trans Sport would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Trans Sport is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Trans Sport (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Trans Sport should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Trans Sport weights approximately 582 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.
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, 1996 Pontiac Trans Sport (190 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Trans Sport 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 | 1996 Pontiac Trans Sport | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | A | Trans Sport |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2820 mm |
