2012 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2006 SSC Ultimate Aero
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 SSC Ultimate Aero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 SSC Ultimate Aero would be higher. At 6,340 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 SSC Ultimate Aero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 SSC Ultimate Aero (1,187 HP @ 6950 RPM) has 1106 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 SSC Ultimate Aero should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 76 kg more than 2006 SSC Ultimate Aero.
Because 2006 SSC Ultimate Aero 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 2006 SSC Ultimate Aero. 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, 2006 SSC Ultimate Aero (1,113 Nm @ 6200 RPM) has 933 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2006 SSC Ultimate Aero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | 2006 SSC Ultimate Aero | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | SSC |
| Model | A | Ultimate Aero |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 6340 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 1187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6950 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 1113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 416 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15 seconds | 2.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2080 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1090 mm |
