1998 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Elegance review from UK and Ireland

I started to notice a cracking noise from the rear end about 2-3 months after buying the car and assumed it was the spare wheel working loose as the noise only happened on corners or over bumps. After 8 months of hearing this intermittent noise I decided to get a mechanics opinion. An idependent mechanic immediately pointed out it was the rear radius arms on both wheels. The wheels were effectively loose and could be moved about 1/2 inch overall. He recommended both radius arms be replaced and stated that every A-class he has seen has this problem. I took it to a MB dealer since being an approved used MB its warranty was still in effect. I asked for the radius arms to be replaced. MB only replaced the wheel bearings, this has stopped the noise, but only time will tell.

Another problem is the way the car accelerates. Being a clutchless system there is a lag when moderate to hard accelerating. On pressing the accelerator pedal the revs shoot up to about 4500, the car doesn't accelerate until about 1-2 seconds later when the drive system engages and the revs drop. This can be quite annoying when wanting to overtake another vehicle quickly. The MB dealer says it is "normal" for this clutchless system.

Overall I believe this was a good buy as I do a lot of miles and hate using clutches in traffic jams. So far, on long motorway driving, I get 60 mpg and about town 47 at the worst. Cheap to insure and tax, comfortable ride, unless on a poor road surface then the wide front tires will dictate which direction you go. Good power steering, very solid and controllable. Tyres don't have much grip in the wet, but they can be changed. Handling is good for the type of car it is (i.e. its no sports car).

Compared to a Renault Clio that I rented prior to buying this, the A-class is far better for long distance driving and more comfortable, and a second hand A-class is cheaper than a new Clio. New A-classes are not worth the money, only buy used, only depreciation will create value for money.