1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2005 Jaguar S-Type
To start off, 2005 Jaguar S-Type is newer by 7 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Jaguar S-Type is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Jaguar S-Type (197 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Jaguar S-Type should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Jaguar S-Type weights approximately 525 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 2005 Jaguar S-Type 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 2005 Jaguar S-Type. 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, 2005 Jaguar S-Type (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Jaguar S-Type 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 | 2005 Jaguar S-Type | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Jaguar |
| Model | A | S-Type |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2920 mm |
