2004 Audi A4 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A4 (170 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1998 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, 2004 Audi A4 (235 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | A |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1784 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
