1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Audi A7
To start off, 2012 Audi A7 is newer by 15 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Audi A7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A7 (310 HP) has 251 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A7 weights approximately 790 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 2012 Audi A7 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A7 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, 2012 Audi A7 (440 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 2012 Audi A7 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2012 Audi A7 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | A | A7 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 310 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4968 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2913 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 3.9 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 6.6 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 75 L |
