2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,898 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (123 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 355 kg more than 2001 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, 2001 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 (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 54 L |
