1983 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,765 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1983 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 250 kg more than 1983 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 316. 1983 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 2012 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 316 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | A |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1765 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
