2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (266 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Toyota Highlander (249 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. 2009 Toyota Highlander 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. 2009 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 2009 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | A | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 73 L |
