2004 Audi A8 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 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 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 605 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 A8 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | A |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2430 mm |
