1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2012 Audi Q3
To start off, 2012 Audi Q3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2012 Audi Q3. (168 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi Q3.
Because 2012 Audi Q3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi Q3 will offer significantly more control. 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 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi Q3. (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi Q3. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2012 Audi Q3 has manual transmission. 2012 Audi Q3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2012 Audi Q3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | E | Q3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1600 mm |
