2009 Audi A3 vs. 2000 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 645 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2000 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mercedes-Benz C. (230 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2000 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 69 L |
