2006 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 9 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 240 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, 2006 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 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:
2006 Audi A3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | A |
Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1689 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 88 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 13.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1095 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1580 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |