2006 Audi A3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,500 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 372 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 865 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2010 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 S (829 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 509 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2010 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 829 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
