2002 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 6 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 2,146 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 590 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | E |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2084 cc | 2146 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
