2009 Aston Martin DB9 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Aston Martin DB9 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 5,935 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Aston Martin DB9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Aston Martin DB9 (470 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 342 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Aston Martin DB9 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Aston Martin DB9 weights approximately 740 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Aston Martin DB9 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 Aston Martin DB9. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2009 Aston Martin DB9 (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Aston Martin DB9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2009 Aston Martin DB9 has manual transmission. 2009 Aston Martin DB9 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Aston Martin DB9 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Aston Martin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DB9 | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5935 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 470 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 600 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2430 mm |
