2004 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 2 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 375 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
