2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2009 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,383 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2009 Pontiac Solstice. (173 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2009 Pontiac Solstice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Pontiac Solstice weights approximately 24 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 2009 Pontiac Solstice. 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 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Pontiac Solstice. (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Pontiac Solstice.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 2009 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | A | Solstice |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 49 L |
