2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2001 Audi S3
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 S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi S3 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi S3 (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi S3 weights approximately 204 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi S3 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, 2001 Audi S3 (270 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2001 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 2001 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | A | S3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 42 L |
