1997 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2013 Audi A3
To start off, 2013 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Audi A3 (197 HP) has 63 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Audi A3 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Audi A3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Audi A3 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, 2013 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | 2013 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | E | A3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4292 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1995 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2578 mm |
