2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (216 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 415 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | A |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 54 L |
