2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2011 BMW 520
To start off, 2011 BMW 520 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine.
Because 2011 BMW 520 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 2011 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2011 BMW 520 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 2011 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | A | 520 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
