1997 Audi A8 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A8 (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 575 kg more than 2001 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 A8 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (131 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | A |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 54 L |
