2008 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 6,207 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 430 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 860 kg more than 1997 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 S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 S (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 451 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz S | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | S | A |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6207 cc | 1689 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 518 HP | 88 HP |
Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 631 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 102.2 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 19.0:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1095 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1580 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3170 mm | 2430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 54 L |