2008 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 12 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 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (151 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 100 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 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 (220 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 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 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | C |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2295 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 151 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 90.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 88.4 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1365 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2970 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |