1985 BMW 324 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW 324. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW 324 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 BMW 324 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1985 BMW 324. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 324. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 BMW 324 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1985 BMW 324 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 1985 BMW 324. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW 324. (152 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 BMW 324.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 324 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 324 | A |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 94 mm |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.5 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
