2008 Audi A3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz S (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 530 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2007 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3040 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 10.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
