1985 BMW 325 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 BMW 325 (120 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1668 kg more than 1985 BMW 325.
Because 1985 BMW 325 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 325. 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 (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW 325. (230 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 325 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 325 | A |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | 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 | 120 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1162 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 5.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
