2008 BMW X3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 235 kg more than 2008 BMW X3.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (246 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 54 L |
