1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2009 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2009 Smart ForTwo is newer by 11 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 58 more horse power than 2009 Smart ForTwo. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2009 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2009 Smart ForTwo 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 2009 Smart ForTwo. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Smart ForTwo. (92 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 2009 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Smart |
| Model | A | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 81.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 2700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 1870 mm |
