2008 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 550 kg more than 2003 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 M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
