1999 BMW 330 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 330 would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 330 (185 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 330 weights approximately 680 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 330 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 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1999 BMW 330 (390 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. 1999 BMW 330 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 330 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 330 | A |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
