2008 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 11 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 5,970 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Corvette (398 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 310 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 40 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Corvette.
Because 2008 Chevrolet Corvette 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 2008 Chevrolet Corvette. 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, 2008 Chevrolet Corvette (546 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 366 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Corvette | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Corvette | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5970 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 398 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 546 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 300 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.1 seconds | 13.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 54 L |
