2006 Audi A3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 4 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 905 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.
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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz R (349 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2010 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | R |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 2245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3216 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
