1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 964 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 2012 Volkswagen Routan 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. 2012 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | A | Routan |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 283 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6350 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 352 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 2084 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 5144 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1953 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1750 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 3078 mm |