2004 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP) has 71 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 825 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | R |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 2235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
