2008 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (136 HP @ 2800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (360 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 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 | 60 L | 66 L |
