2012 Audi A3 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2012 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2012 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (357 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 965 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (550 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL has manual transmission. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | GL |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 357 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 2425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 3075 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
