2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Audi S3
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi S3 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 22 kg more than 2003 Audi S3.
Because 2003 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | C | S3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |
