2006 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 3 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 4,662 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 305 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | GL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 4662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.4 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 18.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 100 L |
