2004 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 5 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1255 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 362 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | GL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 2460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 10 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 100 L |
