2001 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1177 kg more than 2001 BMW M3.
Because 2001 BMW M3 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 2001 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2001 BMW M3 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | A |
Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2034 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 2832 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |