2009 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 409 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 Mercedes-Benz S (830 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 681 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (149 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | A3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3170 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 18.1 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
