Mercedes-Benz A-class W169 A 160 CDI (82 Hp)


Overall Rating

8.2 / 10
Safety 5.0 / 5
Engine 3.8 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.8 / 5
Comfort 3.9 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Mercedes-Benz A-class:

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is a car manufactured by German luxury automaker Mercedes-Benz. It has been marketed across four generations as a front-engine, front-wheel drive, five-passenger, five-door hatchback, with a three-door hatchback offered for the second generation, as well as a saloon version for the fourth.
As the brand's entry-level vehicle, the first generation A-Class, internally coded W168, was introduced in 1997, the second generation in late 2004 and the third generation in 2012. The fourth generation model , which was launched in 2018, marked the first time the A-Class was offered in the United States and Canada. This fourth generation A-Class is also the first to be offered both as a hatchback and sedan....(Read more on Wikipedia)

W169 Overview:

Mercedes-Benz A-class (W169). With 180 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~6.2 l/100km). With a weight of 1325 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 15 s). The top speed reaches 170 km/h. A compact car with a rear door that swings upward to provide access to the cargo area. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Euro NCAP Year 2005
Adult Occupant 97%
Stars 5
Expert Note:
The W169 A-Class achieved an excellent 5-star Euro NCAP rating, demonstrating strong adult occupant protection for its segment and era.

A 160 CDI (82 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

An entry-level diesel, performance is modest and best suited for urban environments where outright speed is not a priority.

Fuel Economy

Exceptional fuel efficiency, making it one of the most economical options in the range.

Best Use Case: Urban commuting, budget-conscious drivers.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Excellent interior space and versatility for its class
  • • High safety ratings (5-star Euro NCAP)
  • • Premium interior feel and build quality
  • • Wide range of efficient and powerful engines
  • • Compact footprint ideal for city driving

Cons:

  • • Autotronic CVT gearbox can be prone to issues and costly repairs
  • • Ride can be firm on certain road surfaces
  • • Some interior plastics feel less premium than expected from Mercedes
  • • Higher maintenance costs compared to non-premium rivals
  • • Styling was polarizing for some buyers

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(W168, facelift 2001: 2002 - 2004).

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:A-class
Generation:W169
Modification (Engine):A 160 CDI (82 Hp)
Start of production:2004
End of production:2008
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Hatchback
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:82 Hp @ 4200 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:41.2 Hp/l [198mm more]
Torque:180 Nm @ 1400 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:OM 640.942 More details about the engine OM 640.942
Engine displacement:1991
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Diesel Commonrail
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Engine oil capacity:5.8 l
Coolant:8.4 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:83 mm mm
Piston Stroke:92 mm mm
Compression ratio:18:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:6.2 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:4.3 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:4.9 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:15 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:15 sec
Maximum speed:170 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:16.2 kg/Hp, 61.9 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:7.4 kg/Nm, 135.8 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:14.3 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1325
Max. weight:1764
Max load:439
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1995 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:435 l
Fuel tank capacity:54 l
Size:
Length:3838 mm mm [198mm more]
Width:1764 mm mm [45mm more]
Height:1595 mm mm [8mm more]
Wheelbase:2568 mm mm [145mm more]
Front track:1552 mm
Rear (Back) track:1547 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesDisc
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Tires size185/65 R15
Wheel rims size6J x 15
Front suspensionSpring Strut
Rear suspensionCoil spring

Behind the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz A-class. How does it handle on the road?