1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2011 BMW X3
To start off, 2011 BMW X3 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 X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW X3 (240 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW X3 weights approximately 745 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 X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (299 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 2011 BMW X3 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 X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 2011 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | A | X3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2807 mm |
