2006 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 145 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Audi A3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | C |
Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1797 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 85.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 78.7 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1410 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2700 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |