1974 BMW 3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 107 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 3 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 1974 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | A |
Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 15 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1326 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2570 mm |