1996 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 7,410 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (612 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 461 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 910 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (848 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 638 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | E |
Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 7410 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 151 HP | 612 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 848 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 325 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 2050 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 75 L |