1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 286 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 @ 2500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (315 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2009 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | A3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 3187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1896 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
