2005 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (362 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 305 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 2005 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 5.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 12.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
