2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 630 kg more than 2003 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 E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 E (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.1 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.1:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 54 L |
