2008 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 250 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2005 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2005 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 10.9 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 | 1445 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
