1998 BMW 325 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 325 weights approximately 239 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1998 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 325 (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 325 | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2084 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
