2008 Audi A4 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 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 2,965 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (222 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 410 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.
Because 2008 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 will offer significantly more control. 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 A4 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
