1989 BMW Z1 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW Z1 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 BMW Z1 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 1989 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1989 BMW Z1 (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
1989 BMW Z1 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Z1 | A |
Year Released | 1989 | 1997 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1580 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2430 mm |