2009 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 320 kg more than 2001 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, 2009 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 11.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
