2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 805 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2001 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A | S |
Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4965 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.1 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 5160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2970 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 88 L |