The Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W169) A 170, equipped with the Autotronic continuously variable transmission, was a key model in the first generation of Mercedes’ compact hatchback offering. Produced from 2004 to 2008, this variant aimed to provide an accessible entry point into the A-Class range, prioritizing fuel efficiency and ease of use over outright performance. It was positioned as the base model, appealing to buyers seeking a practical and comfortable city car with the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz brand. The W169 A-Class, built on the A-Class platform, represented a significant departure for Mercedes-Benz, venturing into a segment previously dominated by rivals like the Volkswagen Golf and the Ford Focus.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A-Class |
| Generation | A-Class (W169) |
| Type (Engine) | A 170 (115 Hp) Autotronic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp, 92.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm, 125 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 3500 rpm (114.32 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 266.940 |
| Engine displacement | 1699 cm3 (103.68 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.5 mm (3.09 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1240 kg (2733.73 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1705 kg (3758.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 465 kg (1025.15 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 435 l (15.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1995 l (70.45 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 54 l (14.27 US gal | 11.88 UK gal) |
| Length | 3838 mm (151.1 in.) |
| Width | 1764 mm (69.45 in.) |
| Height | 1593 mm (62.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2568 mm (101.1 in.) |
| Front track | 1556 mm (61.26 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission Autotronic |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The A 170 utilized the Mercedes-Benz M 266.940 engine, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine was a naturally aspirated unit, employing multi-port fuel injection. The engine produced 115 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 155 Nm (114 lb-ft) of torque at 3500 rpm. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. A key feature of this variant was the Autotronic transmission, a continuously variable transmission (CVT) developed in-house by Mercedes-Benz. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, the Autotronic used a belt and pulley system to provide a seamless and stepless gear change, optimizing engine efficiency and smoothness. The Autotronic, while offering a comfortable driving experience, was sometimes criticized for its responsiveness and a perceived lack of direct connection to the engine.
Driving Characteristics
The A 170 Autotronic offered a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing smoothness over sporty performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 10.9 seconds, and the top speed was around 113.7 mph. The Autotronic transmission contributed to a relaxed driving style, particularly in city traffic. However, the CVT’s nature meant that it didn’t offer the immediate response of a traditional automatic or manual gearbox. Compared to the more powerful A 200 models, the A 170 felt noticeably slower, especially during overtaking maneuvers. The CVT also tended to hold higher engine speeds under hard acceleration, which could be perceived as droning. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy, making it a suitable choice for urban commuting.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A 170 typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features, including air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and straightforward dashboard layout. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. Safety features such as ABS and airbags were standard. The A 170 was generally considered the entry-level trim, lacking some of the luxury features found in higher-spec A-Class models like the A 200 or A 180 CDI.
Chassis & Braking
The W169 A-Class featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride quality. The A 170 was equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels, along with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, and the steering was light and easy to use. The relatively low weight of the A 170, at around 1240 kg (2734 lbs), helped to compensate for the modest engine output.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A 170 Autotronic was generally well-received as an affordable and practical city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but some found the engine underpowered and the Autotronic transmission lacking in responsiveness. Compared to the A 200, which offered more power and a traditional automatic transmission, the A 170 was seen as a more economical but less engaging option. The A 180 CDI diesel variant offered superior fuel economy and torque, appealing to drivers who prioritized efficiency and low running costs. The A 170’s main competitors included the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel/Vauxhall Astra.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W169) A 170 Autotronic, while not the most powerful or dynamically engaging variant in the range, remains a relatively reliable and affordable used car option. The M 266.940 engine is generally considered durable, and the Autotronic transmission, while sometimes requiring specialized maintenance, can provide years of service if properly cared for. Common issues include occasional CVT belt wear and potential oil leaks. Today, the A 170 is often sought after by buyers looking for a comfortable, economical, and well-equipped city car with the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz badge. Its relatively simple mechanical design makes it a potentially attractive option for DIY mechanics.
