2008 Honda Civic vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Honda Civic 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 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Civic (99 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda Civic weights approximately 60 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Honda Civic (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Civic | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Civic | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 17.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 54 L |
