1996 BMW M3 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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 255 kg more than 2012 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, 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 M3 (320 Nm) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (141 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | A |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
