2003 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 318 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 1530 kg more than 2003 BMW 318.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 318. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 318. (167 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 318 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 318 | A |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |