2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1997 Nissan Laurel
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 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan Laurel (153 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 45 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Nissan Laurel 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 1997 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Laurel. (190 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Laurel. 1997 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 1997 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | A | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2730 mm |
