1996 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 645 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
