2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 111 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | S | A |
Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 275 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 15 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1764 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 54 L |