BMW NEW 1-SERIES

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MERCEDES-BENZ A-CLASS

When you get down to it, do they end up being similar in shape?

The body size of the BMW 1 Series and the Mercedes-Benz A-Class is almost the same, but the A-Class is longer in terms of overall length and wheelbase. BMW is a manufacturer that places more importance on sportiness than the luxury-oriented Mercedes-Benz. A shorter wheelbase means that handling and turning ability can be expected.

What’s interesting is that the body shapes are very similar. There’s no doubt that both Mercedes-Benz and BMW design their bodies with a focus on aerodynamics. It’s possible that similar styling was the result of pushing aerodynamics to the limit, just like in aircraft and F1 cars.

BMW New120

Body size = Length 4370mm x Width 1800mm x Height 1465mm

Wheelbase = 2670mm

Vehicle weight = 1460kg

Tire size = 205/55R17

Mercedes-Benz A180

Body size = Length 4430mm x Width 1800mm x Height 1440mm

Wheelbase = 2730mm

Vehicle weight = 1400kg

Tire size = 205/55R17

Is the new engine still better?

The 120 has an inline three-cylinder engine, while the A180 has an inline four-cylinder, but both cars share a mild hybrid system. The displacement, however, is 1.5 liters for the 120 and 1.3 liters for the A180. This likely accounts for the 20 PS power difference. The torque difference is 10 Nm. The weight difference between the two cars is 60 kg, with the 120 being heavier, but there doesn’t seem to be much difference in acceleration.

BMW New120

Engine type = Inline 3-cylinder DOHC Turbo

Displacement = 1498cc

Maximum output = 156PS/5000rpm

Maximum torque = 240Nm/1500-4400rpm

Transmission = 7-speed DCT

Drive system = FWD

Mercedes-Benz A18 0

Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder DOHC Turbo

Displacement = 1331cc

Maximum output = 136PS/5500rpm

Maximum torque = 230Nm/1650-3500rpm

Transmission = 7-speed DCT

Drive system = FWD

The 1 Series is the latest and cheapest

The two cars are in roughly the same price range, but the A180 has been around for a while, while the 120 is the latest model and slightly cheaper. Considering the latest driver assistance features and infotainment system, the 120 offers better value.

Vehicle price

BMW New120 4.78 million yen

Mercedes-Benz A180 4.99 million yen

Related reading

The fourth-generation BMW 1 Series is being introduced in Japan with a completely new design and a mild hybrid powertrain.

BMW has introduced the fourth-generation 1 Series to Japan. This premium compact hatchback features a completely redesigned design and a mild hybrid powertrain. The first models to be introduced are a 1.5-liter inline-3 turbo 48V mild hybrid model and a 2.0-liter inline-4 gasoline turbo engine model, with deliveries scheduled to begin in November.