2006 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (168 HP @ 3000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |
