Ian Royle examines a 1998 model Mercedes-Benz A-Class, taking a look at what it has to offer in terms of practicality, performance and handling. This revised version is now being dubbed as the safest small car on the road, and perhaps even safest car overall. The model tested is a 1.6 litre engine, which produces just over 100bhp, giving it a 0-60 time of 11 seconds and a top speed of 113mph. The fuel economy is also very good and can get up to a stated figure of 39 mpg.