1999 Audi A3 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (237 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1999 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 990 kg more than 1999 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (617 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 473 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A3 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 617 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 15.5 :1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 2130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5226 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3165 mm |
