1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2011 BMW 740
To start off, 2011 BMW 740 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 740 (315 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 256 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 740 weights approximately 850 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 740 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 2011 BMW 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2011 BMW 740 (447 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 287 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 2011 BMW 740 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 2011 BMW 740 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | A | 740 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 315 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 5075 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1902 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 3071 mm |
