1998 BMW 316 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 316 (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 50 kg more than 1998 BMW 316.
Because 1998 BMW 316 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 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 15 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
