2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,948 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 395 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (540 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C | A |
Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2948 cc | 1898 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 540 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 97 mm | 85.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.8 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 2050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2430 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 54 L |