2009 Audi A3 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1200 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 1999 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, 1999 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1999 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 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | ML |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
