2009 Ford E-250 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Ford E-250 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 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford E-250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford E-250 (225 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford E-250 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 154 kg more than 2009 Ford E-250.
Because 2009 Ford E-250 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 Ford E-250. 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 Ford E-250 (388 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford E-250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford E-250 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-250 | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6030 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2140 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3510 mm | 2430 mm |
