2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1997 Renault Spider
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 Renault Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Renault Spider would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Renault Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Renault Spider (140 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Renault Spider 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 330 kg more than 1997 Renault Spider.
Because 1997 Renault Spider 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 Renault Spider. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Spider. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1997 Renault Spider | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | A | Spider |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2350 mm |
