1998 BMW 317 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 317 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (101 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 317 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 317 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 317 | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
