The Mercedes-AMG A35 and BMW M135i xDrive are not the fastest hot hatches on the market, but they are two of the most enjoyable and well-rounded currently on sale. As this drag race video from Car Magazine over in South Africa shows, they are also very evenly matched in a straight-line.
Let’s start with the A35 first, shall we? Like the all-conquering A45, it is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder but has significantly less power, delivering 302 hp and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. Coupled to this engine is a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission sending power through all four wheels. In perfect conditions, Mercedes says the A35 is good for a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.7 seconds and a 155 mph (250 km/h) electronically limited top speed.
No Slouch: Does The Mercedes-AMG A35 Perform As Advertised In The Real World?
Similarly, the BMW M135i xDrive, introduced after the A35, also features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 302 hp and a touch more torque, 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) to be exact. It also features an all-wheel drive system and reaches 62 mph in a claimed 4.8 seconds as well as a 155 mph (250 km/h) top speed.
In the one and only drag race held between the two, both leaped off the line exceptionally quickly and the BMW established a slight lead. However, the A35 started to edge ahead and claimed victory by roughly a car length over the BMW when the duo crossed the quarter-mile mark.
Should neither the current M135i or A35 appeal to you, the previous-generation M135i might. Unlike the new car, it features a naturally-aspirated six-cylinder and has rear-wheel drive.