2007 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 65 kg more than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz A | 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | C |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 85.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
