2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2013 BMW 3 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 3 Series is newer by 7 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 BMW 3 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 3 Series (227 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 3 Series should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 260 kg more than 2013 BMW 3 Series.
Because 2013 BMW 3 Series 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 2013 BMW 3 Series. 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, 2013 BMW 3 Series (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2013 BMW 3 Series 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 | 2013 BMW 3 Series | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | A | 3 Series |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.7 :1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1961 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1395 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
