2005 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Solstice (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2008 Pontiac Solstice 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 2008 Pontiac Solstice. 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, 2008 Pontiac Solstice (353 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Solstice 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 | 2008 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | A | Solstice |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 49 L |
