2007 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (198 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. (168 HP @ 3000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |
