1996 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 417 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1199 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 ML (699 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 555 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | ML |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 518 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 699 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 2345 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4803 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2141 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1796 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2916 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 105 L |