2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 BMW 1 Series
To start off, 2012 BMW 1 Series is newer by 4 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 1 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 1 Series (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 1 Series should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 1 Series weights approximately 265 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 1 Series 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 2012 BMW 1 Series. 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, 2012 BMW 1 Series (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 1 Series 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 | 2012 BMW 1 Series | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | A | 1 Series |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 53 L |
