1988 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 205 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1988 BMW 520 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 1988 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (310 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520. 1988 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW 520 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 520 | A |
Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 141 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1365 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 5.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |