2002 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,720 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 911 kg more than 2002 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 ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A3. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | ML |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 331 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 2186 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
