1998 BMW 316 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 11 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1582 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 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, 1998 BMW 316 (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 316 | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 2832 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 | 60 L |
