2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2003 Porsche Boxster
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 Porsche Boxster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Porsche Boxster would be higher. At 2,687 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Porsche Boxster (225 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Porsche Boxster weights approximately 80 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 Porsche Boxster 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 Porsche Boxster. 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 Porsche Boxster (261 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Porsche Boxster 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 | 2003 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | A | Boxster |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2032 cc | 2687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 261 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2360 mm |
