2003 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 520 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz A | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A | C |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2148 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 80 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 130 Nm | 340 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 69.5 mm | 88.3 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |