1997 Audi A6 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A6 would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A6 (227 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A6 weights approximately 435 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Audi A6 (310 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1997 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 1997 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A6 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | A |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
