2004 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 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 111 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2002 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 2002 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 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2002 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 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
