2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 170 kg more than 1998 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 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, 1998 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 (260 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C | A |
Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 260 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 85.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1095 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2430 mm |