MERCEDES BENZA-Klasse (W168) 1997 - 2001

　　In 1993, Mercedes-Benz showed the “Vision A 93” concept-car at the Frankfurt Motor Show. It was a styling exercise for a compact vehicle, fit for five adults, and great in crowded cities.

　　The “Vision A 93” featured a small, 1.2-liter engine either diesel or gasoline. Both were mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The idea caught on and, four years later, at the Geneva Motor Show, the production version of the A-Class was unveiled to the public. It was a completely new philosophy for the German car-maker. From a classical layout with front engine and rear-wheel-drive to a front-engine and front-wheel-drive system. On top of that, the double sandwich floor allowed the car to pass the crash test with flying colors.

　　The MPV-style bodywork with the raked A-pillars built as an extension to the hood. The car featured an integrated trunk and cabin under the same roof. The overall egg-shaped vehicle was well received by the market.

　　Inside, there was a roomy interior, with plenty of space for five adults. Some features were similar to those from the C-Class. But all things went south in 1997 when a Swedish magazine tried the elk-avoidance stability test and the A-Class flipped over. Mercedes-Benz had to do a major recall and fix the cars.

　　The A-Class was offered with a wide choice of gasoline and diesel engines. They were mated either to a five-speed manual or with a CVT.