2008 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 2 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (198 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 355 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.8 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
