1999 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz E. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 140 kg more than 2012 Audi A3.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz E. (250 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz E | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | E | A3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.3 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.1 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
