2004 Audi A3 vs. 2000 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C (127 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 150 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2000 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2000 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2000 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2000 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Audi A3 2000 Mercedes-Benz C
Make Audi Mercedes-Benz
Model A3 C
Year Released 2004 2000
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1595 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 101 HP 127 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 148 Nm 190 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.3:1 10.6:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 13.2 seconds 11 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1295 kg 1445 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4350 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 69 L