2001 Audi A3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,512 cc (12 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 406 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 885 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz S (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 580 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A3. 2007 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2001 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2001 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 5512 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 4.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 14.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
