2009 Dodge Durango vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Dodge Durango is newer by 12 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Durango is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Durango (207 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Durango should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Durango weights approximately 840 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 2009 Dodge Durango 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 Dodge Durango. 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, 2009 Dodge Durango (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Durango will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Durango | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Durango | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3700 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1890 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 102 L | 54 L |
