2012 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2007 BMW 318
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 318 (128 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1395 kg more than 2007 BMW 318.
Because 2007 BMW 318 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 2007 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 318. 2007 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2012 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | 2007 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | A | 318 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.2 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
