2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 740 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 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 2006 BMW Z4. 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 Z4 (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z4 | A |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
