2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A 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 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 145 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |
