2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 190 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | CLK |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 69 L |
