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 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (123 HP @ 5500 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. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 440 kg more than 2008 Audi A4.
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 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 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. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A4 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 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 | 2975 cc | 1898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.9 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 54 L |
