2003 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 320 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2003 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2003 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 520 | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.5 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
