2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 319 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 644 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 550 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 2011 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 429 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 2011 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | A | 550 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2969 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
