2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (140 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 185 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Audi A3 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
Model | C | A3 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 161 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 241 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1505 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1422 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |