2008 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz R would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2011 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A3 weights approximately 425 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi A3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 2011 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2011 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | R | A3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.9 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
