2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,597 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (169 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 345 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2005 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | A |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 54 L |
