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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (454 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 254 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 125 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 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 319 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 454 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4724 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2766 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |
