1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan weights approximately 446 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 Tiguan (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Tiguan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.6 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4426 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1809 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1703 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2604 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 6.3 L/100km | 4.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.4 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 5.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 64 L |
