1988 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 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 10 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 M3. 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, 1988 BMW M3 (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW M3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | A |
Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2303 cc | 1699 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 221 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1210 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |