2009 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 758 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2009 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 68.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1788 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
