1981 BMW 525 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 525 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 525 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 525 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 1981 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1981 BMW 525 (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 525 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 525 | A |
Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2084 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 205 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 11.0:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1195 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1610 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2780 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |