2008 Audi S3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Audi S3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 2008 Audi S3. (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 725 kg more than 2008 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi S3 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 470 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi S3. (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 5506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 88 L |
