1996 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 520 weights approximately 191 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1996 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 520 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 520 | A |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2034 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1496 kg | 1305 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |