2008 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 380 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 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
