2012 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz B. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz B would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 B (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz B has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | B |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
