2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (154 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 105 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 C (231 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 18.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 54 L |
