The A-Class Mercedes-Benz was first presented at the end of 1996, and its production started in September 1997, while its second generation premiered in June 2004. This is the first time an A-Class model has been offered in a 3-door or a 5-door version, the outer dimensions of the new vehicle being greater than of the extended version of the old model. The new A-Class has also been provided with a new range of power plants, among which are 1.5-liter 95 hp, 1.7-liter 116 hp and 2.0-liter 136 hp or turbocharged 193 hp petrol engines, accompanied by a diesel engine of a 2.0-liter capacity and of 82, 109 or 140 hp. Depending on the version, an A-Class model is provided with a 5- or a 6-speed manual gearbox, and – upon the buyer’s request – with a 7-speed automatic gearbox.