2012 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
