2008 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (295 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 750 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 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (385 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Audi A3 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Audi Mercedes-Benz
Model A3 S
Year Released 2008 2012
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1984 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 295 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 385 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 7-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1350 kg 2100 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 5245 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1872 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1473 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 3165 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 90 L


 

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