1992 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW M3 (282 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW M3 weights approximately 225 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 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 1992 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, 1992 BMW M3 (320 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1992 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW M3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | A |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2990 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 54 L |
