2008 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 3 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. (168 HP @ 3000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2011 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.8 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |
