2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2001 Audi S3
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi S3 would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2001 Audi S3. (210 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 365 kg more than 2001 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi S3. (270 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi S3. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2001 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2001 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2001 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | S3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 42 L |
