2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1996 Renault Spider
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 Renault Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Spider would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Renault Spider (141 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Renault Spider 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 235 kg more than 1996 Renault Spider.
Because 1996 Renault Spider 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 1996 Renault Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, both vehicles can yield 185 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1996 Renault Spider has manual transmission. 1996 Renault Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1996 Renault Spider | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | A | Spider |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2350 mm |
