2006 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 860 kg more than 1997 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 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 S (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mercedes-Benz S | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | S | A |
Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3497 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 268 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1580 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 54 L |