2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 384 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 890 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 514 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | CLS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4996 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1407 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
