2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (298 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | A | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
