2002 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1040 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | C |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2084 cc | 3497 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 | 205 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 2205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
