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, 1993 BMW 316 (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 136 kg more than 1993 BMW 316.
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 (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 BMW 316. (151 Nm @ 3900 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 | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13 seconds | 15 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 54 L |
