Mercedes-Benz A-Class vs BMW 1 Series: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and BMW 1 Series, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 674,755 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
The BMW 1 Series comes out slightly ahead with an 87% MOT pass rate versus 84% for the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the BMW 1 Series has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class
84%
MOT pass rate
493,299 tests
BMW 1 Series
87%
MOT pass rate
181,456 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Mercedes-Benz A-Class vs BMW 1 Series
| Category | Mercedes-Benz A-Class | BMW 1 Series |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 84% | 87%Winner |
| MOT Fail Rate | 16% | 13%Winner |
| vs All-Model Avg | +2 pts | +5 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (petrol, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,814 | £1,814 |
| Est. Insurance Group | 18-28 | 25-35 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £2,000-£3,500 | £2,000-£3,500 |
| Engine Size | 1.7L | 2.1L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Diesel, Petrol | Diesel, Petrol |
| Segment | Premium | Premium |
| Avg Mileage | 74,077 miWinner | 88,631 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 493,299 | 181,456 |
| Model Years | 24 years | 18 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (95%)Winner | 2018 (92%) |
| Worst Year | 1999 (68%) | 2004 (72%)Winner |
| Reliability Trend | Improving | Improving |
Pass rates are the share of MOT tests that ended in a pass (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included), across all years of each model. Best and worst years need at least 100 tests. Fuel cost, insurance group and depreciation are our rough estimates from engine size and make, not official figures.
Common Problems Comparison
Typical issues to check on cars of this type and age, not faults measured for these models.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
BMW 1 Series: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Higher tyre and brake wear (larger engine)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
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Mercedes-Benz A-Class vs BMW 1 Series FAQ
Can I compare a Mercedes-Benz A-Class and BMW 1 Series by registration plate?
Yes. Enter each car's UK registration plate on this page or use our free compare tool at carcostcheck.co.uk/compare to see MOT history, mileage, health scores and running costs for the exact vehicles you are considering, not just model averages.
Which is more reliable, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class or BMW 1 Series?
The BMW 1 Series has the higher MOT pass rate, 87% compared to 84% for the Mercedes-Benz A-Class (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
Which is cheaper to run, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class or BMW 1 Series?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class costs around £1,814 in fuel, while the BMW 1 Series costs around £1,814 (our estimates for petrol versions from average engine size, with fuel at GOV.UK average pump prices for the week of 19 October 2026). On these estimates they cost the same in fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Mercedes-Benz A-Class or BMW 1 Series?
The BMW 1 Series comes out slightly ahead with an 87% MOT pass rate versus 84% for the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the BMW 1 Series has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
BMW 1 Series Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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