1983 BMW 525 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 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 115 kg more than 1983 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 BMW 525. 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 (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 525. (241 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 525 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 525 | A |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
