2001 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (170 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 250 kg more than 2001 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, 2001 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, both vehicles can yield 250 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
