2008 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (216 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 390 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
