2009 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (202 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 445 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 2005 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 2005 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
