2009 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 550 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML (391 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | ML |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 391 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
