1997 BMW 316 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 316 (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 316 weights approximately 290 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW 316 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 1997 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1997 BMW 316 (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW 316 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 316 | A |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 80 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 130 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 69.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2600 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 54 L |