1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 13 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (451 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 371 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 560 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 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 470 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A | C |
Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1397 cc | 6200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 80 HP | 451 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 130 Nm | 600 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1655 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4724 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1796 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2766 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 66 L |