2006 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 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 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (333 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 450 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 2006 BMW M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2006 BMW M3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M3 | A |
Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1689 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 333 HP | 58 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1580 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |