2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 675 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 C (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C | A |
Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 161 HP | 80 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 130 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 69.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2600 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 54 L |