2009 Audi R8 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Audi R8 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 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2009 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi R8 (518 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 430 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi R8 weights approximately 485 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 R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 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 R8 (530 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi R8 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R8 | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 1687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 311 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 3.9 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 54 L |
