2009 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz R would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP) has 130 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1310 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | R |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 2205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
