2009 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 355 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1055 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | S |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1968 cc | 5439 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 700 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1985 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2970 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 88 L |