2008 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Audi S3
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi S3 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2003 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 457 kg more than 2003 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi S3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | 2003 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | S3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
