1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,597 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (169 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 465 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A | C |
Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2597 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 169 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4620 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2730 mm |