2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1997 Porsche Boxster
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Porsche Boxster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Porsche Boxster would be higher. At 2,480 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Porsche Boxster (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Porsche Boxster weights approximately 180 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Porsche Boxster 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 1997 Porsche Boxster. 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, 1997 Porsche Boxster (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Porsche Boxster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1997 Porsche Boxster has manual transmission. 1997 Porsche Boxster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 1997 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | A | Boxster |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2360 mm |
