1996 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 307 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 M3 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | A |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1697 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 328 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 78.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1325 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |