2006 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML. (240 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML.
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 ML (616 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 296 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | ML |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 616 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2916 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 93 L |
