1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 15 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), 2013 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 256 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI 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 | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | GTI |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2578 mm |
