2005 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 2 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 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 505 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Audi A3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | S |
Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4964 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 88 L |