2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2006 Audi A3
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 525 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A3 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, 2006 Audi A3 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 (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 480 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (321 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2006 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | A3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 60 L |
