1987 BMW 324 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 324. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 324 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 BMW 324 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1987 BMW 324. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 324. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 BMW 324 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1987 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 1987 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, 1987 BMW 324 (214 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 BMW 324 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 324 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 324 | A |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 2084 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 8.2 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 | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
