1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Porsche Panamera
To start off, 2012 Porsche Panamera is newer by 14 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 4,806 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Porsche Panamera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Porsche Panamera (400 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 320 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Porsche Panamera should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Porsche Panamera weights approximately 705 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 2012 Porsche Panamera 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 2012 Porsche Panamera. 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, 2012 Porsche Panamera (500 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Porsche Panamera 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 | 2012 Porsche Panamera | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | A | Panamera |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 4806 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4968 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1931 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1408 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.3 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.4 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
