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Mercedes-Benz C-Class vs Audi S3 - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (671 HP vs 306 HP), trunk space and price (48,500 $ vs 47,400 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Mercedes-Benz C-Class or Audi S3?

Mercedes-Benz C-Class vs Audi S3: Key differences

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

  • substantially more power
  • a bit more efficient
  • markedly more trunk space

Audi S3

  • marginally cheaper
  • marginally lighter

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

C-Class

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Audi S3 is marginally cheaper – starting at 47,400 $ , while the Mercedes-Benz C-Class costs 48,500 $ . That’s a price difference of around 1,050 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class performs a bit better – achieving 26 mpg, compared to 23 mpg for the Audi S3. That’s a difference of about 3 mpg.

S3

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers substantially more power – delivering 671 HP compared to 306 HP. That’s roughly 365 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mercedes-Benz C-Class delivers clearly more torque with 752 lb-ft compared to 295 lb-ft. That’s about 457 lb-ft more.

C-Class

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Audi S3 is marginally lighter – 3,527 lbs compared to 3,825 lbs. The difference is around 298 lbs.

In terms of cargo space, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers markedly more room – 12.6 cu. ft. compared to 8.3 cu. ft.. That’s a difference of about 4.3 cu. ft..

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class stands well ahead of its rival in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $48,500
C-Class

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

  • Engine Type : Plug-In Hybrid,
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All Wheel, Rear Wheel
  • Power HP : 255 - 671 HP
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Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
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General
View detailed analysis

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a seamless blend of elegance and performance, offering a luxurious driving experience that appeals to both enthusiasts and casual drivers alike. It boasts a refined interior with high-quality materials and an array of advanced technology features aimed at enhancing comfort and connectivity. With its dynamic design and smooth handling, the C-Class continues to set a standard in the compact luxury sedan segment.

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Audi S3

The Audi S3 is a compact luxury sports sedan that combines understated elegance with dynamic performance. Its exterior showcases a bold, sporty design with sharp lines and a confident stance, making it stand out on the road. Inside, the S3 offers a premium cabin filled with high-quality materials and advanced technology, creating a refined driving experience.

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Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Audi S3

Costs and Consumption
Price
48,500 - 86,100 $
Price
47,400 $
FuelEconomy City
20 - 26 mpg
FuelEconomy City
23 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
28 - 36 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
32 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
17.4 gal
Fuel tank capacity
14.5 gal

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
4MATIC Sedan, Sedan
Body Type
Sedan
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,825 - 4,165 lbs
Curb weight
3,527 lbs
Trunk Volume
9.8 - 12.6 cu. ft.
Trunk Volume
8.3 cu. ft.
Length
187 - 190.6 in.
Length
177.3 in.
Width
74.4 - 77.4 in.
Width
71.5 in.
Height
56 - 57 in.
Height
55 in.

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Plug-In Hybrid,
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
All Wheel, Rear Wheel
Drive Type
All Wheel
Power HP
255 - 671 HP
Power HP
306 HP
Torque
295 - 752 lb-ft
Torque
295 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2 L
Engine Displacement
2 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General
Model Year
2,025
Model Year
2,024
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Brand
Audi
What is the price of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class?

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class starts at 48,500 $.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.