2008 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 11 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 1,898 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 785 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. 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 (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 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:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 10.2 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 | 1265 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
