1990 BMW 316 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 316 (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 245 kg more than 1990 BMW 316.
Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
1990 BMW 316 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 316 | A |
Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1990 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 141 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1325 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |