2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1996 Opel Frontera
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Frontera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Frontera would be higher. At 2,195 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Frontera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Frontera (134 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Frontera should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1191 kg more than 1996 Opel Frontera.
Because 1996 Opel Frontera is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Opel Frontera will offer significantly more control. 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 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Frontera. (202 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Frontera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1996 Opel Frontera | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Frontera |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1639 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
