2002 Audi S3 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 S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi S3 would be higher. At 6,207 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 296 more horse power than 2002 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 532 kg more than 2002 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 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 S (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi S3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi S3 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 S3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 6207 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 102.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1423 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |
