2008 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 305 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| 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 | 197 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 66 L |
