2012 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2013 Nissan Z
To start off, 2013 Nissan Z is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2012 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Nissan Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Nissan Z (327 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Nissan Z 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 1326 kg more than 2013 Nissan Z.
Because 2013 Nissan Z 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 2013 Nissan Z. 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, 2013 Nissan Z (374 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Nissan Z 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 | 2013 Nissan Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | A | Z |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 327 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 374 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11:01:00 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2832 kg | 1506 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4405 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1845 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1315 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 72 L |
