1999 BMW 318 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 318 weights approximately 200 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1999 BMW 318 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 1999 BMW 318. 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, both vehicles can yield 180 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | A |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
