1975 BMW 316 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1975 BMW 316. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 125 kg more than 1975 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 BMW 316 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 1975 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 316. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 BMW 316 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | A |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 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 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 54 L |
