2005 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 195 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (149 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | A |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
