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 86 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1399 kg more than 1974 BMW 3.
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 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 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 | 1699 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 78.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 2832 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 |