2001 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 7 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 392 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | R |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
