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• A Class (98-04)

Review

It is hard to remember just how radical the A Class was when it came out, with its big cabin, Mercedes-Benz build quality and safe handling. The ride is heavy-footed and crashy because of suspension modifications made after the notorious failed 'Elk test'. The basic 1.4-litre engine feels underpowered if used out of town, but the mid-ranking 1.6 petrol has urge to spare for most buyers. The 170 CDI turbodiesel option gives impressive fuel economy at the cost of refinement, while the range-topping A190 and A210 versions are too expensive to make real sense. Excellent secondhand values make the A Class a justifiably popular private buy.

Ratings Breakdown

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