1998 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 372 kg more than 1998 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 69 L |
