2005 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A

To start off, 2005 BMW 325 is newer by 8 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), 2005 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 325 (189 HP) has 130 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 325 weights approximately 500 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 2005 BMW 325 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 2005 BMW 325. 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, 2005 BMW 325 (237 Nm) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm). This means 2005 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW 325 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model 325 A
Year Released 2005 1997
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1689 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 189 HP 59 HP
Torque 237 Nm 160 Nm
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 84 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 19.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1620 kg 1120 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 3580 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1580 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2430 mm
Fuel Consumption Highway 8.7 L/100km 3.9 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 12.4 L/100km 6.6 L/100km
Fuel Consumption Overall 10.7 L/100km 4.5 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 54 L