2003 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML (187 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 885 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 ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 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 (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | ML |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 10.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 2110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 95 L |
