1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 BMW 640
To start off, 2012 BMW 640 is newer by 15 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 640 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 640 (311 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 640 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 640 weights approximately 670 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 2012 BMW 640 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 2012 BMW 640. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2012 BMW 640 (630 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 470 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 640 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 | 2012 BMW 640 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | A | 640 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.8 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4894 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1894 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1369 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2855 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
