2009 BMW Z4 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 1 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), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 255 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 2009 BMW Z4 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 Z4. 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, 2009 BMW Z4 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z4 | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
