1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (121 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 410 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 2005 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2650 mm |
