2006 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,264 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 166 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 4264 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1884 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 12.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 88 L |
