2009 Audi A3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Audi A3 would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 321 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 605 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 2150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
