2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 510 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz C (450 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 2001 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1898 cc | 3197 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 350 HP |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 5.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1695 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
