1997 BMW 730 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 730 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 730 weights approximately 725 kg more than 2004 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 730 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 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 730 (279 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW 730 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW 730 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 730 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 730 | A |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 54 L |
