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 2,685 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5250 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1044 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will offer significantly more control. 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 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 2685 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2064 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 54 L |
