1996 Audi A3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 14 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 494 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 2010 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 2010 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz C (349 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2010 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 66 L |
