2006 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5096 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
