2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1983 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,839 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 620 kg more than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1983 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1983 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1983 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2033 cc | 3839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2205 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2860 mm |
