1988 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 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 113 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1630 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, 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | A |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 237 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 2830 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 |
