1996 BMW 332 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 332. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 332 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 332 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 332 (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 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 1270 kg more than 1996 BMW 332.
Because 1996 BMW 332 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 332. 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, 1996 BMW 332 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 332 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 332 | A |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
