1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 BMW 330
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 596 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 BMW 330 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2008 BMW 330 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | A | 330 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.8 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1716 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 63 L |
