2003 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,188 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (246 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 374 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | ML |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3188 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 11.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1506 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 83 L |
