1998 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1998 Audi A3 is newer by 1 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 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi A3 (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi A3 weights approximately 20 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.
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 Mercedes-Benz A (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Audi A3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | A |
Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1689 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 58 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 19.5:1 |
Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1580 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 54 L |