1998 Nissan Serena vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Nissan Serena. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Nissan Serena would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 Nissan Serena. (96 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1998 Nissan Serena. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1445 kg more than 1998 Nissan Serena. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Nissan Serena 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 1998 Nissan Serena. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Nissan Serena. (131 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Nissan Serena.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Nissan Serena | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Nissan | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Serena | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2570 mm |
