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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5500 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 570 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 (320 Nm @ 2500 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 | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1795 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 | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
