2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus
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 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,551 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 355 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Microbus 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 Volkswagen Microbus. 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 1997 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Microbus |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 2551 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2470 mm |
