2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,985 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 299 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 955 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 1996 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 1996 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 430 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (140 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. 1996 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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 5985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.2 mm | 80.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 100 L |
