2012 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,995 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (302 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 855 kg more than 2012 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 ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (700 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | ML |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 3995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 2315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 95 L |
