2005 BMW 740 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 BMW 740 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 4,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 740 (328 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 740 weights approximately 815 kg more than 1998 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 740 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 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 740 (390 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 2005 BMW 740 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 740 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 740 | A |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4000 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1935 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2430 mm |
