2005 Audi A3 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 8 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (291 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 815 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 2013 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 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (385 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 2020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5226 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 3165 mm |
