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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 245 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 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 262 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 (305 Nm) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm). 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 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3001 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 180 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1326 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |