2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2009 BMW 523
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 495 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 523 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 2009 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2009 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. 2009 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 2001 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 2009 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | A | 523 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.1 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
