2011 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2005 BMW 320
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 320 weights approximately 310 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 320 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 2005 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2005 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. 2005 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2011 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | 2005 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | A | 320 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 63 L |
