2003 BMW 545 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A

To start off, 2003 BMW 545 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 545 (328 HP) has 269 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 545 weights approximately 585 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 BMW 545 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 545. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 545 (450 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW 545 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model 545 A
Year Released 2003 1997
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4398 cc 1689 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 328 HP 59 HP
Torque 450 Nm 160 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 1500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82.7 mm 84 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 19.5:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 153 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 6.1 seconds 17.3 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1705 kg 1120 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 3580 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1580 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2430 mm
Fuel Consumption Highway 7.9 L/100km 3.9 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 16.3 L/100km 6.6 L/100km
Fuel Consumption Overall 10.9 L/100km 4.5 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 54 L