2005 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,261 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 543 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (320 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1344 kg | 1887 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.5 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 88 L |
