1996 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 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 2,685 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (175 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 540 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 68.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 219 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
