1996 BMW 540 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 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1015 kg more than 1996 BMW 540.
Because 1996 BMW 540 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 540. 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, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 540 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 540 | A |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4397 cc | 2034 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 440 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.6 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |