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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 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 390 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 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 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 | 1984 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 14.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 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 Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
