1991 BMW 518 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW 518 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 BMW 518 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 BMW 518 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 1991 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW 518 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 518 | A |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2600 mm |
