1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 435 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | A | A3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.8 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
