2004 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A3 would be higher. At 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (621 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 369 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 740 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (999 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 679 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 621 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 2305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.6 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.9 L/100km | 19.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
