2006 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 BMW 325 is newer by 9 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 215 kg more than 2006 BMW 325.
Because 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 325 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 325 | A |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.7 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |
