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 2,147 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 395 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
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 (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 90 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 | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2147 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 85.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1095 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2430 mm |