2004 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 8 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 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 100 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, both vehicles can yield 155 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | A |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
