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
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.
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)
Owner Satisfaction Rating (J.D. Power 2024)
Structured comparison data for Mercedes-Benz vs Audi with 474 attributes.
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)
Combined Fuel Economy (Sedan Base Model)
0-60 mph Acceleration (Performance Model)
Estimated Resale Value Retention (3-Year)
Average Resale Value Retention (3 years)
Consumer Reports Overall Reliability Rating
Average Reliability Rating (J.D. Power 2024)
Transmission Failure Rate (10-year lifespan)
Consumer Reports Reliability Rating 2024
Total 10-Year Ownership Cost (avg mid-size sedan)
Starting Price (2026 3-Series vs C-Class)
Flagship Model Price (911 Turbo S / S-Class 580)
Infotainment System Display Size (Standard)
Customer Satisfaction (Net Promoter Score)
Base Model Starting Price (C-Class/A4 Segment)
Average Annual Maintenance Cost (Years 1-5)
Reported Problems per 100 Vehicles (Year 1)
Total 10-Year Ownership Cost (Maintenance + Repairs)
Average Annual Maintenance Cost (After Warranty)
0-60 mph Acceleration (Base Sport Model)
Combined Fuel Efficiency (Mid-Size Sedan)
0-60 mph Acceleration (Sedan Comparison)
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.