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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (201 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3.
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 (500 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 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 | 1967 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 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 | 55 L | 93 L |
