1996 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 16 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1690 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | A |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 151 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92 mm |
Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |