Mercedes-Benz leads in luxury brand prestige and engine performance, while Audi excels in technology integration and all-wheel-drive systems. Mercedes models typically command 8-12% higher prices for equivalent segments.
Mercedes-Benz vs Audi — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B
German luxury automaker renowned for advanced technology, performance, and engineering innovation.
German luxury brand emphasizing technological innovation and all-wheel-drive mastery
Average Starting Price (Compact Luxury Sedan). Global Brand Prestige Ranking (2025). All-Wheel Drive Availability (%). EV Model Variety. Infotainment System Updates (Annual). Warranty Coverage (Base). Owner Satisfaction Rating (J.D. Power 2024)
Choose Mercedes-Benz if you prioritize brand prestige, engine refinement, and a comprehensive EV lineup with stronger resale value. Choose Audi if you want better value, superior all-wheel-drive technology, more frequent software updates, and longer warranty coverage at a lower entry price point.
Mercedes-Benz: New S-Class with enhanced tech | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: Software-defined | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: GLC turbocharged refined | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: MB Tech Stack state-of-the-art | Audi: MMI with AI voice control
Mercedes-Benz: Comfort-oriented refinement | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: EQS 400/550 4MATIC models | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: Ultra-premium throughout | Audi: Premium leather, ambient lighting
Mercedes-Benz: 4 years standard | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 14+ models with EQS expansion | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 3.4 (AMG E63 S) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 4.6 seconds (C 43 AMG) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 14.4 inches (S-Class) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 603 (AMG E63 S) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 25 MPG combined (C-Class estimated) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (GLE 350 base) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (2.0L turbocharged) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 4 years / 50,000 miles | Audi: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Mercedes-Benz: Premium luxury pricing baseline | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 3,580 lbs (C-Class est.) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 4 years / 50,000 miles | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: Varies (not standard) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 402 hp (M256 3.0L turbo) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: Nappa leather and Alcantara throughout | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 3.9s (C63 AMG) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $49,500 (C-Class) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $65,000 (2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: Level 3 (Drive Pilot, limited markets) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 1,400+ dealerships | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 8 models | Audi: 6 models
Mercedes-Benz: 138 | Audi: 127 years (est. 1899)
Mercedes-Benz: 4 years/50k miles | Audi: 4 years/50k miles
0-60 mph Acceleration (Performance Flagship)
Mercedes-Benz: 3.6s (C63 AMG) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (C300) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 12 (C, E, S-Class, CLA, GLA, GLB, GLC, GLE, GLS, EQE, EQS, EQC) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $55,800 (C-Class) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: Mercedes-AMG C63: 3.6s | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: C300: 23 mpg combined | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: C-Class Sedan: 12.6 cu ft | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: EQE: 350 miles | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: MBUX Hyperscreen (9.5/10) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: Optional (4MATIC) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: EQE, EQS, EQC (strong) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 5.8 sec | Audi: 6.2 seconds
Mercedes-Benz: 3.4 seconds (AMG GT 63 S) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 456 miles (EQS 580) | Audi: N/A
Consumer Reports Reliability Rating (2024)
Mercedes-Benz: 5.0 (Average) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 9-speed automatic | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $1,680 (mid-size luxury) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 3 years / 36,000 miles | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 11.9 inches (MBUX standard) | Audi: 10.1 inches (MMI Touch)
Mercedes-Benz: 4 years / 50,000 miles | Audi: 4 years/50,000 miles
Mercedes-Benz: Smooth, comfort-focused | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 149 mph (C-Class) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 312 miles (EQS 450+) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 4 years / 50k miles | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 12.6 cu ft (C-Class) | Audi: N/A
Customer Satisfaction Rating (J.D. Power 2024)
Mercedes-Benz: 100 years (founded 1926) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 6+ EV models across segments | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 40,000+ (Drive Pilot) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (2.0L Turbo) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 23 MPG combined | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 125 years (founded 1901) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 2.9 sec (AMG GT) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 5+ (EQE, EQS, EQE SUV, EQC, EQA) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $55,000 (C-Class base, 2024) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: MBUX with ChatGPT integration (2024+) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $108,000 (S-Class) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 453 miles (EQS 580e) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 150+ countries | Audi: 100+
Mercedes-Benz: 402 hp (C43 AMG) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 4.6s (C43 AMG) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 5 models (EQE, EQS, EQG, EQE SUV, EQS SUV) | Audi: 6 (e-tron/Q4 e-tron lineup)
Mercedes-Benz: 630 hp (AMG 63 E Performance) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 28 mpg (C300 2.0L turbo) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 48 months/50,000 miles | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 4.3 (C63 AMG) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 4 of 11 lineup | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 9 models (4 hybrid + 5 EV) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $45,650 (C 300) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $65,900 (GLE 350) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 585 HP (AMG C 63) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 453 miles (EQS 580 4MATIC) | Audi: N/A
Average Annual Maintenance Cost (Years 1-3)
Mercedes-Benz: 4yr / 50,000 mi | Audi: 4yr / 50,000 mi
Interior Material Standard (Leather Type)
Mercedes-Benz: Nappa (standard on most trims) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 8 EV models (EQE, EQS, EQC, EQA, EQE SUV, EQS SUV, EQG coming) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: ~3,500 dealerships | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $43,250 (C-Class, 2024) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 12+ (Compact, Sedan, SUV, Coupe, Cabriolet, AMG Performance, Maybach Ultra-Luxury, EV lines) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 11.9 inches | Audi: 10.1 inches
Mercedes-Benz: 36.2 inches | Audi: 32.8 inches
Mercedes-Benz: 139 years | Audi: 118 years
Combined Fuel Economy (Sedan Base Model)
Mercedes-Benz: Hand-stitched Nappa leather, ambient lighting | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 435 miles (EQS 580) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 3.8 seconds (AMG E63 S) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 186 mph (AMG E63 S) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 21 mpg (E350) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 11 (C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLA, GLC, GLE, GLA, C63 AMG, EQC, Maybach, SL) | Audi: N/A
0-60 mph Acceleration (Performance Model)
Mercedes-Benz: 3.4 seconds (AMG C63) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 260 miles (EQE 53 AMG) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $47,900 (C-Class) | Audi: $45,400
Mercedes-Benz: 400,000 (public network partnerships) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 22 minutes (250 kW DC charging) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 170+ countries | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 100 years (Founded 1926) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 25 MPG (2024 C-Class base) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 4 years/50,000 miles | Audi: N/A
Estimated Resale Value Retention (3-Year)
Mercedes-Benz: 603 hp (E53 AMG) | Audi: N/A
Average Resale Value Retention (3 years)
Consumer Reports Overall Reliability Rating
Mercedes-Benz: Average | Audi: Above Average
Mercedes-Benz: 4MATIC standard on select models | Audi: Quattro standard on most models
Mercedes-Benz: MBUX with AI and predictive navigation | Audi: MMI 8 with wireless CarPlay/Android Auto
Mercedes-Benz: ~740,000 | Audi: 1.6 million
Mercedes-Benz: 15+ models across all powertrains | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 50% EV sales target by 2030 | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (GLC 300) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 5.9 seconds (GLC 300) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 22 mpg (GLC 300) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 12.3 inches (MBUX) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 535 km (EQS 450+) | Audi: 487 km (e-tron GT)
Mercedes-Benz: 2.35 million (2024) | Audi: 1.98 million (2024)
Mercedes-Benz: 12.3-inch MBUX | Audi: 12.3-inch MMI (top models)
Mercedes-Benz: 585 HP (AMG C63) | Audi: 592 HP (RS 6 Avant)
Mercedes-Benz: 7.2 L/100km (C300 manual) | Audi: 7.0 L/100km (A4 40 TFSI)
Mercedes-Benz: 825 points | Audi: 828 points
Mercedes-Benz: 5.8 sec (C300 2024) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 12+ (sedans, SUVs, AMG, EQ-series) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 260 (EQE 300) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 12.3 inches | Audi: 10.1" MMI
Average Reliability Rating (J.D. Power 2024)
Mercedes-Benz: 11.9 inches OLED | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 28 MPG (C300 base) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 621 (AMG E63) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 100 years (1926) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 33 MPG (C 300) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 0.1s (9-speed automatic) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 17.5:1 (E-Class) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 12.6 cu ft (E-Class) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 35 dB (C-Class) | Audi: N/A
Transmission Failure Rate (10-year lifespan)
Consumer Reports Reliability Rating 2024
Total 10-Year Ownership Cost (avg mid-size sedan)
Mercedes-Benz: $16,380 repairs + maintenance | Audi: N/A
Starting Price (2026 3-Series vs C-Class)
Mercedes-Benz: 26 (C-Class Turbo) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 402 (AMG C43) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 10 years / 100,000 | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 12.3 inches dual | Audi: 10.1-12.3 inches
Flagship Model Price (911 Turbo S / S-Class 580)
Mercedes-Benz: 3.6 (AMG C63) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 180 (S-Class 580) | Audi: N/A
Infotainment System Display Size (Standard)
Mercedes-Benz: 11.9 (MBUX Hyperscreen) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 6.5 seconds (GLE 450) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 3-4 years / 50,000-60,000 miles | Audi: N/A
Customer Satisfaction (Net Promoter Score)
Mercedes-Benz: $50,000-$75,000 (C-Class/E-Class) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 12+ dedicated models | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 11.9-12.3 inches | Audi: 12.3 inches
Mercedes-Benz: 200+ countries | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $3,800 (gasoline) | Audi: N/A
Base Model Starting Price (C-Class/A4 Segment)
Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (C300) | Audi: 201 hp (A4 2.0T)
Mercedes-Benz: 12 models | Audi: 8 models
Mercedes-Benz: 2-3 updates | Audi: 4-6 updates
Mercedes-Benz: 11.6 OLED | Audi: 10.1 LCD
Mercedes-Benz: 8+ (EQE, EQS, EQG, etc.) | Audi: N/A
Average Annual Maintenance Cost (Years 1-5)
Reported Problems per 100 Vehicles (Year 1)
Total 10-Year Ownership Cost (Maintenance + Repairs)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: Q3: 3,800 lbs
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: RS models: 3.6 seconds
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: Q4 e-tron: 105 MPGe estimated
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 5 SUVs (Q2, Q3, Q4, Q7, Q9)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: Virtual Cockpit Plus: 1920x720
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: Q7 TFSI e: 456 hp
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 5-star equivalent modern systems
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: Q4 e-tron: 275 miles
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 591 hp (RS6 Avant)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: ~40% of lineup
Average Annual Maintenance Cost (After Warranty)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 5.3 sec (A6 55 TFSI)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 3 years / 36,000 miles
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 4-cylinder turbo, V6 turbo, hybrid, PHEV, EV options
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 456 miles (e-tron GT)
0-60 mph Acceleration (Base Sport Model)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 5.7 seconds (A4 45 TFSI)
Combined Fuel Efficiency (Mid-Size Sedan)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: Not offered (gas engines only)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 261 hp (40 TFSI)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 68 dB @ 70 mph
0-60 mph Acceleration (Sedan Comparison)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 6.8 sec (A4 2.0T)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 28 MPG combined
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: Standard on most trims
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: $550-650 annual
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 650 dealerships
How to choose between Mercedes-Benz and Audi
Mercedes-Benz vs Audi — Structured Comparison Data
Machine-readable comparison dataset for Mercedes-Benz vs Audi. Contains 474 attribute comparisons, 5 FAQ pairs.
Mercedes-Benz vs Audi — Attribute Category Vocabulary
Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for Mercedes-Benz vs Audi.
Which brand holds its value better long-term?
Mercedes-Benz typically maintains 55-60% of its value after 5 years, while Audi holds 52-58%, according to Kelley Blue Book 2024 data. Mercedes' stronger brand prestige contributes to approximately 3-4% better resale values in luxury segments, though this varies by specific model and market conditions.
Which is more reliable, Mercedes or Audi?
According to Consumer Reports 2024, Audi ranks slightly higher in reliability (above average) compared to Mercedes (average), with fewer reported transmission and electrical issues. However, both brands score below Japanese luxury competitors. Annual maintenance costs average $850-$950 for Audi and $950-$1,100 for Mercedes.
Do Audi's all-wheel-drive systems outperform Mercedes?
Audi's Quattro system is standard on 89% of its lineup and offers superior winter traction and snow handling in comparative tests. Mercedes' 4MATIC is available on 78% of models but focuses more on luxury refinement. For harsh winter climates, Audi's wider AWD availability makes it the practical choice, while Mercedes prioritizes performance balance.
Which brand has better technology and infotainment?
Audi's MMI system receives more frequent OTA updates (4-6 annually vs Mercedes' 2-3), keeping features current. However, Mercedes' MBUX system features larger OLED displays (up to 11.6 inches) and more advanced haptic feedback controls. For software currency, Audi wins; for display quality, Mercedes prevails.
What's the total cost of ownership over 5 years?
Comparing 2024 models: An Audi A4 ($43,900) costs approximately $68,500 total over 5 years (fuel, maintenance, insurance), while a Mercedes C300 ($47,500) costs roughly $72,800 due to higher service costs and insurance premiums. Audi provides approximately $4,300 in total ownership savings, though luxury features may justify the premium for Mercedes buyers.
How to Choose Between Mercedes-Benz and Audi
Consider: Average Starting Price (Compact Luxury Sedan)
Average Starting Price (Compact Luxury Sedan): Mercedes-Benz has $47,500, while Audi has $43,900.
Consider: Global Brand Prestige Ranking (2025)
Global Brand Prestige Ranking (2025): Mercedes-Benz has #1 Luxury Automotive, while Audi has #3 Luxury Automotive.
Consider: All-Wheel Drive Availability (%)
All-Wheel Drive Availability (%): Mercedes-Benz has 78% of lineup, while Audi has 89% of lineup.
EV Model Variety: Mercedes-Benz has 12 models (EQC, EQE, EQS, EQG), while Audi has 8 models (Q4 e-tron, e-tron GT, Q6 e-tron).
Consider: Infotainment System Updates (Annual)
Infotainment System Updates (Annual): Mercedes-Benz has 2-3 OTA updates/year, while Audi has 4-6 OTA updates/year.
Warranty Coverage (Base): Mercedes-Benz has 3 years / 36,000 miles, while Audi has 4 years / 50,000 miles.
Consider: Owner Satisfaction Rating (J.D. Power 2024)
Owner Satisfaction Rating (J.D. Power 2024): Mercedes-Benz has 82/100, while Audi has 80/100.