2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (5 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. (94 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 weights approximately 260 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. (158 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | 250 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1898 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2810 mm |
