2009 Audi A4 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 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 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (261 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 535 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.
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 A4 (330 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 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 2009 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2009 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:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 13.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 54 L |
