2005 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1997 Porsche Boxster
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Porsche Boxster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Porsche Boxster would be higher. At 2,480 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Porsche Boxster (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Porsche Boxster weights approximately 10 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 1997 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 1997 Porsche Boxster. 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, 1997 Porsche Boxster (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Porsche Boxster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | 1997 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | A | Boxster |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1250 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 |
