2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 3,906 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram 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 762 kg more than 1998 Dodge Ram.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram 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, 1998 Dodge Ram 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, 1998 Dodge Ram (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. 1998 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | A | Ram |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 3906 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2832 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2790 mm |
