2006 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,720 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (241 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
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, 2004 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 @ 3000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | A |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3720 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 241 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 5.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 90 L |
