1998 Volkswagen Microbus 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 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1170 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Microbus 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 Volkswagen Microbus. 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Volkswagen Microbus | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Microbus | A |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2553 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1960 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2570 mm |