1996 BMW 318 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,084 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 318 weights approximately 280 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1996 BMW 318 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 1996 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 318 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 318 | A |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2084 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 205 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1165 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3650 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |