2005 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 C (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1796 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 14.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
