2008 Audi A4 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 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 3,123 cc, 2008 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (252 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 370 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 A4 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 2008 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3123 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2430 mm |
