2003 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2003 BMW 325 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 325 (192 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 570 kg more than 2003 BMW 325.
Let's talk about torque, 2003 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 325 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 325 | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.3 L/100km | 11.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
