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 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 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 55 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 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 3000 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 | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 226 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
