2008 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 10 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 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 155 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, 2008 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
