2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 560 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1991 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.8 L/100km | 5.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
