1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 6 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 75 kg more than 2004 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2600 mm |
