2009 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2004 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (140 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 69.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.2 seconds | 12.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
