2011 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,500 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 396 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 920 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 S (829 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 674 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2012 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | A |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5500 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 829 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2245 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5245 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1872 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1473 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3165 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
