2004 Audi A3 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 9 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (423 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 665 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2013 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 470 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 423 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5096 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3035 mm |
