1998 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 13 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (136 HP @ 2800 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (360 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3. 2011 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 66 L |
