2007 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 5 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 244 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1099 kg more than 2007 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | GL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 2515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 100 L |
