1981 BMW 725 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 725 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 725 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1981 BMW 725 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 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 725 (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 725 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 725 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 725 | A |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
