2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (254 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (95 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 434 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (186 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.1 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 5226 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 90 L |
