2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP) has 162 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 560 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 E 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 E. 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 E (315 Nm) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | A |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.4 L/100km | 3.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 54 L |
