1988 BMW 535 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 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 535 (211 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (190 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 355 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 535 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 535. 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, 1988 BMW 535 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. 1988 BMW 535 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 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 535 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 535 | A |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 8 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 | 1630 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
