2004 BMW Z4 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 Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW Z4 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 69 kg more than 2004 BMW Z4.
Because 2004 BMW Z4 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 Z4. 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 (301 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW Z4. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW Z4 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z4 | A |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 5.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
