2002 Ford Econovan vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Econovan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Econovan would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2002 Ford Econovan. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Econovan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Econovan weights approximately 70 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2002 Ford Econovan 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 2002 Ford Econovan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Econovan. (138 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Econovan. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Econovan has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Econovan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Econovan | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Econovan | A |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2570 mm |
