2012 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
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 C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 C. 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | C |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
