2009 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 313 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
