2008 BMW 320 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1998 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 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 320 | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 14.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
