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 5,500 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 372 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 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 745 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 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 S (829 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 509 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 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 | 1968 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 829 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 2250 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 | 60 L | 90 L |