2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2011 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 415 kg more than 2011 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | A3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 55 L |
