1999 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,994 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1999 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 695 kg more than 1999 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (571 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 427 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A3. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1999 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1999 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 571 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 9.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
