2004 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW 318. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | A |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.4 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
