2006 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 870 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.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | R |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2990 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.6 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
