2009 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 12 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 385 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 2009 Audi A3 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, 2009 Audi A3 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 18.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |
