2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2002 Porsche 996
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Porsche 996. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Porsche 996 would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Porsche 996 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 1345 kg more than 2002 Porsche 996.
Because 2002 Porsche 996 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, 2002 Porsche 996 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, 2002 Porsche 996 (371 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2002 Porsche 996 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 | 2002 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | A | 996 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2360 mm |
