2012 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | Vaneo |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2910 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
