2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (168 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 50 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | E |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1735 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
