2004 Audi A3 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 91 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1999 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | ML |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2688 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 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 |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 72 L |
