2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Audi Q3
To start off, 2012 Audi Q3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2012 Audi Q3. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi Q3.
Because 2012 Audi Q3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi Q3 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi Q3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi Q3. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2012 Audi Q3 has manual transmission. 2012 Audi Q3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Audi Q3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | Q3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1600 mm |
