2002 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 372 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 840 kg more than 2002 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 Mercedes-Benz S (830 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 510 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 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 | 1340 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
