1975 BMW 520 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 520 would be higher. Both 1975 BMW 520 and 2006 Mercedes-Benz A are equipped with a 1,991 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1975 BMW 520 (123 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 BMW 520 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 25 kg more than 1975 BMW 520.
Because 1975 BMW 520 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 520. 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 (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 520. (172 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 BMW 520 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | A |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 10.8 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 | 1295 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
