2008 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 390 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (186 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 95 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 3610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |
