2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP) has 441 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 43 kg more than 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500.
Because 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 Ford Shelby GT 500. 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 Ford Shelby GT 500 (652 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 492 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Shelby GT 500 | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5409 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 652 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1077 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.3 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 54 L |
