1996 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 6 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 395 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
Because 2002 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 2002 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, 1996 Audi A3 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | E |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 151 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.7 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1535 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2840 mm |