1969 BMW 1600 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 BMW 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 BMW 1600 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 BMW 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 BMW 1600 (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 BMW 1600 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 199 kg more than 1969 BMW 1600.
Because 1969 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 1969 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, 1969 BMW 1600 (160 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1969 BMW 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 BMW 1600 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1600 | A |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 69.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 54 L |
