2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 225 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1998 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 1998 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | CLK |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
