1996 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 5 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 2,606 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1009 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (370 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | ML |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 83 L |
