1996 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mercury Mountaineer
To start off, 2009 Mercury Mountaineer is newer by 13 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 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercury Mountaineer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercury Mountaineer (207 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercury Mountaineer should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3.
Because 2009 Mercury Mountaineer 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 2009 Mercury Mountaineer. 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, 2009 Mercury Mountaineer (254 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Mercury Mountaineer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2009 Mercury Mountaineer 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. 2009 Mercury Mountaineer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 2009 Mercury Mountaineer | |
Make | Audi | Mercury |
Model | A3 | Mountaineer |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4009 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 207 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 254 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |