2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. 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 S (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 6.9 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 Length | 3840 mm | 5096 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
