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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 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 385 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.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 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 170 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. 2009 Audi A3 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. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1968 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |