1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1997 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Skoda Octavia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Skoda Octavia would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Skoda Octavia (108 HP @ 4150 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 220 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, 1997 Skoda Octavia (235 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1997 Skoda Octavia has manual transmission. 1997 Skoda Octavia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 1997 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Skoda |
| Model | A | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2520 mm |
