1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 10 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (503 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 402 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1255 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 480 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | R |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 102.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 2375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 3220 mm |
