2009 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 11 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 182 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, 2009 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | A |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1390 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |