1980 BMW 316 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW 316 (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 50 kg more than 1980 BMW 316.
Because 1980 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 1980 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW 316. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
1980 BMW 316 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 316 | A |
Year Released | 1980 | 1998 |
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 | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |