1966 BMW 1600 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 BMW 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 BMW 1600 would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1966 BMW 1600. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1966 BMW 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 290 kg more than 1966 BMW 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 BMW 1600 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1966 BMW 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 BMW 1600. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 BMW 1600. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1966 BMW 1600 has manual transmission. 1966 BMW 1600 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 BMW 1600 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1600 | A |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1574 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
