2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 435 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 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 (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C | A |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2430 mm |