2001 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 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 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (202 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 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 2005 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 2005 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, 2001 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 11.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
