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 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (217 HP) has 158 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP). 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 555 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 A4 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 A4 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 A4 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 153 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 17.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.1 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 54 L |
