1996 Audi A3 vs. 1999 Mercury Mountaineer
To start off, 1999 Mercury Mountaineer is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,012 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercury Mountaineer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercury Mountaineer (208 HP) has 108 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercury Mountaineer should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercury Mountaineer weights approximately 791 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 1999 Mercury Mountaineer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mercury Mountaineer 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, 1999 Mercury Mountaineer (325 Nm) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 1999 Mercury Mountaineer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 1999 Mercury Mountaineer has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercury Mountaineer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1999 Mercury Mountaineer | |
| Make | Audi | Mercury |
| Model | A3 | Mountaineer |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 208 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2840 mm |
