2008 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 525 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3498 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3040 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 10.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
