2003 Audi A3 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz M
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz M is newer by 10 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz M (511 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 411 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz M should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz M weights approximately 1140 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.
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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz M (700 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 552 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz M | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | M |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 511 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 2345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4817 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2915 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.5 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.6 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
