A glance beneath the bonnet confirms this: the four-cylinder engines of this compact car are of a unique construction which is specially configured for the A-Class and offers numerous advantages in an automobile of this size. The most important of these is occupant protection: the power unit is installed transversely behind the front axle and inclined forward at an angle of 59 degrees (diesel engines: 56 degrees). This installed position precisely matches the shape of the front bodyshell floor panel. During a severe frontal collision, the engine and transmission are able to slide downwards and to the rear against this panel without damaging the passenger cell. This means that the front end of the A-Class possesses the entire deformation potential provided by a system of robust structural members, absorbing the impact energy and reducing the loads acting on the vehicle occupants.

The second major advantage of the A-Class engines is their compact construction. Their transverse position, partly in front of and partly beneath the passenger compartment, is not only extremely safe but also saves space. It allows a shorter front end design, making a much larger area of the bodyshell available for the comfort of the occupants than conventional designs.

And finally, in addition to their unique, angled design and compact dimensions, the four-cylinder engines of the A-Class also have a great deal to offer in engineering terms. This applies more than ever before to the power units which Mercedes-Benz will use for the second generation of this successful compact car from autumn 2004.

More output, more torque, more driving pleasure – these were the development objectives for the new and improved engines, and these are achieved together with equally impressive progress in terms of environmental compatibility and comfort, as well as a further reduction in fuel consumption:

• Compared to the preceding model, the increase in output generated by the petrol and diesel engines for the new A-Class is up to 38 percent. The output range extends from 60 kW/82 hp for the new A 160 CDI to 142 kW/193 hp for the future flagship model, the A 200 TURBO.
• Compared to the previous A-Class, maximum torque has increased by up to 46 percent. The new A 200 CDI already develops its high torque of 300 Newton metres from 1600 rpm.