1993 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1993 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1993 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 990 kg more than 1993 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 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 1993 BMW 316. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 BMW 316 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | A |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 2830 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 | 62 L | 60 L |
