2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1998 Renault Spider
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 Renault Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Renault Spider 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 49 more horse power than 1998 Renault Spider. (141 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1998 Renault Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 285 kg more than 1998 Renault Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 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 1998 Renault Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1998 Renault Spider | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | A | Spider |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1275 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 |
