1988 BMW M5 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 M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,533 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M5 (311 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (190 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M5 weights approximately 458 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 M5 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 M5. 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 M5 (360 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M5 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M5 | A |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3533 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 253 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1733 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
