1996 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 13 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 2,987 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1690 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 367 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2009 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | E |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2987 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 221 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 540 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |