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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 520 kg more than 2006 Audi A3.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 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, 2006 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.4 L/100km | 9.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 14.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
