2002 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A3 weights approximately 320 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (131 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | A |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
