1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2013 Audi A8
To start off, 2013 Audi A8 is newer by 16 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 3,991 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Audi A8 (367 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 309 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Audi A8 weights approximately 904 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 2013 Audi A8 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, 2013 Audi A8 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, 2013 Audi A8 (445 Nm) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm). This means 2013 Audi A8 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 | 2013 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | A | A8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 3991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 367 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 445 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 89.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 2024 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 5137 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2111 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2992 mm |
