2001 Audi A3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 315 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 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 219 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
