2007 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 199 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 2007 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2007 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | R |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1344 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 14 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
