2009 BMW 740 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 BMW 740 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,998 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 740 (302 HP) has 243 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 740 weights approximately 865 kg more than 1998 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 740 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 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 740 (390 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 2009 BMW 740 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 740 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 740 | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3998 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1985 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2430 mm |
