1988 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 21 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 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1534 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, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW M3 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model M3 A
Year Released 1988 2009
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2302 cc 1991 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 192 HP 108 HP
Engine RPM 6750 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 4750 RPM 1600 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 18.0:1
Top Speed 227 km/hour 181 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1296 kg 2830 kg
Vehicle Length 4350 mm 3840 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1600 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 58 L 60 L