2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 3 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (190 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 785 kg more than 2006 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, 2006 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 (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 520 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2006 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 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2060 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2570 mm |
