2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1605 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (140 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.2 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
