2004 Audi A3 vs. 2000 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2000 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mercedes-Benz S (301 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 180 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 S 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 S. 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 S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2000 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2000 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4965 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.2 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 6160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 4090 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.6 L/100km | 10.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.9 L/100km | 20 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.6 L/100km | 14 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 88 L |
