1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2013 BMW 1 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 1 Series is newer by 16 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 BMW 1 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 1 Series (296 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 1 Series should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 520 kg more than 2013 BMW 1 Series.
Because 2013 BMW 1 Series 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 2013 BMW 1 Series. 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, 2013 BMW 1 Series (407 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 BMW 1 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2013 BMW 1 Series has manual transmission. 2013 BMW 1 Series will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2013 BMW 1 Series | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | A | 1 Series |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1898 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.2 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.2 seconds | 5.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4373 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1919 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1408 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.3 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.3 L/100km | 10.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 53 L |
