2008 BMW 550 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 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 4,799 cc, 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 280 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 565 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 550 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 550. 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 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 550 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 550 | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1397 cc |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 14.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.1 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
