1997 BMW 318 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1385 kg more than 1997 BMW 318.
Because 1997 BMW 318 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 318. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW 318 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 318 | A |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |