2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (175 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 235 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2002 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 2002 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
