2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2001 Audi A3
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,032 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A3 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
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, 2001 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. 2001 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 2001 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | A | A3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2032 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
