2007 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2006 BMW 523
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 37 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2006 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 523. 2006 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 2007 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2007 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz A | 2006 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | A | 523 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.4 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
