Mercedes-Benz leads in luxury prestige and engine performance with average 382 HP across models, while Audi excels in technology integration and achieves better fuel efficiency at 28 MPG average. Both are premium German manufacturers competing in overlapping market segments with different brand positioning.
Audi vs Mercedes-Benz — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B
Choose Mercedes-Benz if you prioritize raw performance, heritage prestige, and traditional luxury appeal with superior engine power. Choose Audi if you value cutting-edge technology integration, better fuel efficiency, and competitive pricing without sacrificing premium quality.
German luxury automaker known for innovative technology and efficiency-focused vehicles.
German luxury manufacturer celebrated for pioneering automotive technology, refined interiors, and prestige brand heritage since 1886.
Customer Satisfaction Score (Consumer Reports)
Structured comparison data for Audi vs Mercedes-Benz with 216 attributes.
Average Annual Maintenance Cost (After Warranty)
0-60 mph Acceleration (Performance Flagship)
Consumer Reports Reliability Rating (2024)
Customer Satisfaction Rating (J.D. Power 2024)
Average Annual Maintenance Cost (Years 1-3)
Interior Material Standard (Leather Type)
Audi vs Mercedes-Benz — Attribute Category Vocabulary
Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for Audi vs Mercedes-Benz.
Which brand is more reliable, Audi or Mercedes-Benz?
Both brands score similarly on reliability. According to Consumer Reports 2024 data, Audi scores 81/100 vs Mercedes-Benz at 79/100 for overall satisfaction. However, Mercedes-Benz historically has stronger resale value (65-70% retention after 5 years) compared to Audi (60-65%), suggesting better long-term durability perception among buyers.
Which luxury brand has better technology features?
Audi leads in infotainment integration with its MMI system rated 8.2/10 by J.D. Power, plus standard wireless smartphone integration and over-the-air software updates on 2023+ models. Mercedes-Benz MBUX scores 7.8/10 but offers superior natural language voice control and larger 11.9-inch displays, though requiring dealer visits for updates.
How much more expensive is Mercedes-Benz than Audi?
Mercedes-Benz commands a 6-12% price premium over Audi in comparable segments. The 2024 A4 starts at $42,900 vs C-Class at $45,400 (5.8% higher), and Q5 at $48,900 vs GLC at $51,200 (4.7% higher). This gap widens in luxury segments where Mercedes-Benz heritage justifies premium positioning.
Which brand offers better performance and acceleration?
Mercedes-Benz delivers superior performance with average 382 HP across core models vs Audi's 347 HP (10% power advantage). The Mercedes-AMG C63 produces 402 HP with 0-60 in 3.9 seconds, while Audi S4 achieves 349 HP and 4.4-second 0-60, making Mercedes the performance leader in direct comparisons.
What is the total cost of ownership difference over 5 years?
Audi's lower fuel consumption (28 vs 24 MPG) saves approximately $2,800-$3,200 in fuel costs over 5 years assuming 15,000 annual miles and $3.50/gallon gas. However, Mercedes-Benz's higher resale value (67% vs 62% retention) recovers $3,500-$4,200 more on a $45,000 purchase, offsetting fuel savings and resulting in comparable total 5-year costs (within 1-2%).