2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace
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 Toyota Hi-Ace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace would be higher. At 2,446 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace. (89 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace weights approximately 520 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace 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 Toyota Hi-Ace. 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 Toyota Hi-Ace (226 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace 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 Toyota Hi-Ace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | A | Hi-Ace |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2446 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.2 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1960 mm |
