1996 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1100 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 R 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 R 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 R (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 288 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | R |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 240 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 | 2240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
