2009 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 3 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 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1495 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (459 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | GL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 4700 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 2425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 100 L |
