2006 Audi S3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi S3 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2006 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 661 kg more than 2006 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi S3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 2091 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
