2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 355 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.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | E |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 10.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
