1996 Audi A3 vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 (402 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 301 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 weights approximately 404 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 (580 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 436 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C 112 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 307 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 100 L |
