These two premium German brands go head-to-head in the small hatchback market. Today, they even look similar! Here, we compare the Mercedes A-Class and BMW 1-Series from 2019 on.
Comparing the looks
Looks are of course, subjective. It’s fair to say in the latest iterations, BMW have moved close to the A-Class shape to compete with the Mercedes’ practicality. A more major change is under the skin, with the traditionally rear wheel drive BMW moving to front wheel drive, which frees up more room for passengers n the rear.
Did you know? The BMW shares the same platform as the Mini Countryman.
We feel both cars look great – particularly if you go for AMG Line or M Sport trims, which give the same visual kick as the performance hot hatches both manufacturers offer.
What are they like to drive?
Getting comfortable in either car is easier, but the 1-Series allows you to sit a little lower, and the steering wheel has more adjustment.
As a motorway cruiser, the 1-Series just beats the A-Class too; it’s a little quieter in terms of wind noise and squeaks from the suspension area are more isolated in the BMW.
However, the A-Class has clearly softer suspension, versus the 1-Series more sporting setup. It’s worth a test drive of both to be sure!
Which car has the best features?
All Mercedes A-Class come with a digital instrument display, whereas the 1-Series only has analogue dials as standard. Look out for an A-Class with the Premium Pack for a larger, expensive looking 10.3in upgraded display, and the 1-Series Tech Pack has its equivalent.
The A-Class is pretty simple to get your head round compared to the 1-Series when it comes to options. The aforementioned Premium Pack comes with that larger screen, as well as adjustable ambient lighting , a rear arm rest, and an upgraded stereo.
Rarer and more expensive to find is a Mercedes equipped with the Premium Plus pack, which gets you a desirable Panoramic Sunroof, Multibeam LED Lights with Adaptive High Beam, and Memory Seats. This makes you feel like you’re in a true luxury car; it’s just certain plastics remind you that this is the bottom rung of the Mercedes ladder.
The 1-Series’ interior has less flair, but it feels more robust. However, the option list is harder to navigate. The Technology Pack comes with Bluetooth and Wireless Charging, Adaptive LED Headlights, a Head Up Display, and Park Assist. However, there’s also the Comfort Pack (heated sets are in here), Comfort Pack II (driver memory, auto tailgate and heated steering wheel), and the rare M Sport Pro Pack which has larger wheels, the Harman/Kardon stereo and lots of M Sport touches. Unlike the Mercedes, you will find some cars on the used market have some of the items in the packs optioned separately – so make sure you read those ads thoroughly!
Which is the more practical?
The Mercedes has a larger boot than the BMW, but access to the 1-Series is easier with a lower lip. If you’re lifting heavy suitcases or buggies, this could be more important.
The A-Class hits back with seats that fold down further, so if you need to move some big items, the Mercedes wins this round!
What are running costs like?
Generally speaking, they are of course fierce rivals, so are broadly similar in running costs. Despite being perceived as perhaps the more upmarket car, the Mercedes was actually cheaper when new, and that is still reflected in used car prices.
Fuel consumption is also better in the Mercedes, and it’s cheaper to insure as well. However, according to What Car? Magazine’s reliability survey, the BMW has proven a more reliable car, which means the Mercedes may present bigger bills as it gets older.
What are running costs like?
Looks may be subjective, but ultimately are the factor for most in making a decision between these close German rivals. One final positive for the A-Class is that it faired better in the Euro NCAP crash safety tests. However, with more reliability issues, we’d likely go for BMW if buying a car without a warranty.
Fortunately, every car purchased from Prestige Cars Kent comes with a 90-Day Guarantee, which you can extend with our Prestige Plus Warranty for up to 5 years.
Whichever car you prefer, we’d encourage you to compare what additional options are included – at least a Premium Pack in the A-Class and the Technology Pack in the 1-Series for our money.