2008 BMW 120 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 BMW 120 is newer by 11 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 120 (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 120 weights approximately 249 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 2008 BMW 120 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 2008 BMW 120. 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, 2008 BMW 120 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 120 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 120 | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1344 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 54 L |
