MERCEDES-BENZ A-Class (W168) cars: technical specifications, versions and trim levels

Mercedes-Benz A-Class W168 cars are compact 5-door hatchbacks which were produced in Europe in 1997 – 2004. It was the first company car in its segment with a front-wheel drive. One of the most famous innovations presented in this car was the system of frontal-impact absorption called “Sandwich”. Due to double floor surface the engine and gearbox would shift towards the cabin at frontal collision, but they slided under pedals without injuring the driver. Apart from the rich technical equipment, hatchbacks were notable for stylish design: Steve Mattin, an exterior designer, was proclaimed the designer of the year by the British magazine “Autocar” for his work on this model. Our specialists will help you to select the most suitable components and order spare parts for Mercedes-Benz A-Class W168. They are always online and ready to answer all your questions.

Technical characteristics of Mercedes-Benz A-Class W168

The length of Mercedes-Benz A-Class W168 hatchback was 3,575 mm, width – 1,719 mm, height – 1,603 mm. The luggage compartment capacity varied from 390 to 1,740 litres according to rear seats configuration. The road clearance was 130 mm. The cabin was a 5-seater. After the 2001 facelift car’s length and height have changed and were 3,606 mm and 1,575 mm respectively.

For reducing the weight and maintenance cost, the car’s rear door and fenders were made of plastics, returning to original shape after insignificant damages.

Main versions

22 versions of Mercedes-Benz A-Class W168 (1997–2004) were released during the production years: 4 diesel, 6 petrol ones – before the 2001 facelift, 8 petrol, 4 diesel ones – after.

The diesel A 170 CDI MT (95 hp) version featured balanced characteristics. Its 4-cylinder 16-valve engine made up to 4,200 rpm, with maximum torque of 180 N⋅m reached between 1 600 and 3 600 rpm. Turbocharging and the Common Rail direct fuel injection system promoted improved dynamics and reduced fuel consumption. The car accelerated to 100 km/h in 12.1 seconds, its top speed was 180 km/h, and average fuel consumption was 6.3 litres per 100 km in the city, 4.9 litres – in a combined cycle and 4.1 litres on a highway. The loading capacity of the version was 385 kg.

Trim levels of A-Class W168

3 main trim levels were offered for A-Class W168 hatchbacks: Classic, Elegance and Avantgarde. A unique equipment list was available for limited series like F1 Edition, Classic Fun, Classic Style, Classic Spirit and Picadilly.

The Elegance trim level includes wing mirror housings and the radiator grille painted in body colour, and chromed strip on door handles. Alloy wheel rims were installed on the car as standard. Natural wood inserts were used for interior decoration. In these cars the manufacturer used the panoramic sunroof for the first time. The Active Service ASSYST system was an equally interesting innovation: it monitored the oil quality constantly and signalized when it needed replacement.