2009 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 BMW 325 is newer by 12 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), 2009 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 325 (189 HP) has 130 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 325 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 325 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 2009 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 325 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 325 | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 17.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
