2005 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 7 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (187 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | R |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3216 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
