1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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 Z3 (320 Nm) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z3 | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
