1996 Audi A3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 510 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 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (351 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2007 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
