2005 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 414 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 31 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 381 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.3 L/100km | 18.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
