2003 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 180 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 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (260 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (250 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
