2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1997 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Skoda Octavia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Skoda Octavia would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Skoda Octavia (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 25 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Skoda Octavia (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1997 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Skoda |
| Model | A | Octavia |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
