2008 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 325 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A3 (281 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1485 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 Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
