1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2003 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2003 Nissan 350Z is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 370 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 2003 Nissan 350Z 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 2003 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2003 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z 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 | 2003 Nissan 350Z | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
Model | A | 350Z |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1689 cc | 3490 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 265 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 363 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2630 mm |