2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 BMW 318
To start off, 2012 BMW 318 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 318 weights approximately 255 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2012 BMW 318 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 318. 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 318 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 2012 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | A | 318 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| 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 | 143 HP |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 57 L |
