2004 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 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 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Audi A3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | C |
Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1797 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 252 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 78.7 mm |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1410 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2700 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |