2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1998 Panoz AIV
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Panoz AIV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Panoz AIV would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Panoz AIV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Panoz AIV (301 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Panoz AIV should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Panoz AIV weights approximately 160 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 1998 Panoz AIV 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 1998 Panoz AIV. 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, 1998 Panoz AIV (407 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 277 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Panoz AIV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1998 Panoz AIV | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Panoz |
| Model | A | AIV |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 59 L |
