2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 199 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 C (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 15 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 4.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 54 L |
