1984 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 235 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1984 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | A |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2570 mm |
