2005 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (101 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz B. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 282 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz B. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz B | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B | A |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 54 L |
