1998 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1998 Audi A3 is newer by 2 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 420 kg more than 1998 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 Mercedes-Benz E (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Audi A3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | E |
Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 78.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |