2003 Audi A8 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 290 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.8 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
