2006 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (257 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 740 kg more than 1998 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 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 E (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 430 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | A |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 257 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 14.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 54 L |
