2008 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 2008 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 15 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
