1986 BMW M5 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,428 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 266 kg more than 1986 BMW M5.
Because 1986 BMW M5 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 1986 BMW M5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1986 BMW M5 (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1986 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M5 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M5 | A |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3428 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 60 L |
