2005 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2003 Toyota Solara
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Toyota Solara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Toyota Solara would be higher. At 2,437 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Toyota Solara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Toyota Solara (162 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Toyota Solara should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Toyota Solara weights approximately 155 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.
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, 2003 Toyota Solara (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Toyota Solara 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 | 2003 Toyota Solara | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | A | Solara |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 2437 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2680 mm |
