2006 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3.
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 ML (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | ML |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 95 L |
