2008 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
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 ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (288 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 759 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.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (440 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | ML |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 2214 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 83 L |
