2003 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (175 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 735 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (330 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | S |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 330 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |