2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 11 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 120 (176 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 120 weights approximately 370 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 2012 BMW 120 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 2012 BMW 120. 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, 2012 BMW 120 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 2012 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | A | 120 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 51 L |
