4/10/20 31/75 1997 Mercedes-Benz A-class

This next Mercedes casting was actually released worldwide in 1999 before returning to ROW status in 2000, and what a shame it was because this is the best this casting has ever looked in silver with detailed headlights, grille, and taillights, all on a metal base with a working suspension.  Did I mention this was a small car almost the length of a Mini Cooper or VW Beetle?  This is the new compact car from Mercedes that was revolutionary when it was released in 1996:  for starters, the I-4 motor under the hood is placed at a 45 degree angle with the valve cover visible from under the hood to allow the engine to slide under the passenger compartment during a crash to protect the occupants.  The interior offers seating for five with room like an SUV and plenty of cargo space, though the dashboard materials and layout differs from other Mercedes at a budget point with more plastic than leather seats.  Handling with the working suspension is pretty darn amazing and even if it couldn’t pass the Euro moose test back in 1997 it still can hold its own.  Then there’s the styling that is very futuristic and unlike any Mercedes models, not to mention influenced the style of the first ML and the 2000 S-class, and it offers multiple panels on the roof that slide open (not detailed on this Matchbox casting).  This is one casting that I have admired since it was released and it was a shame it didn’t get much use outside of the occasional ROW line usage.

Specifications:

· Engine: 1.9L SOHC I-4, 125 hp.

· Transmission: 5-speed manual

· 0-60 mph: 10.0 sec. est.

· Real vehicle price: #20,000 est. 1996

Rating:  5 out of 5 stars