1999 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 392 more horse power than 1999 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 995 kg more than 1999 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 657 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A3. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1999 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1999 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Audi A3 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Audi Mercedes-Benz
Model A3 S
Year Released 1999 2002
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1595 cc 5513 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 12 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 101 HP 493 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 144 Nm 801 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 82 mm
Engine Stroke Size 77.4 mm 87 mm
Top Speed 200 km/hour 250 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 2135 kg
Vehicle Length 4160 mm 5170 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 54 L 88 L


 

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