2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz R would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1245 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | R |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3498 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 2175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
