2002 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 535 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | CLS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
