2002 Audi A2 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E

To start off, 2002 Audi A2 is newer by 6 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 167 more horse power than 2002 Audi A2. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 982 kg more than 2002 Audi A2. 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, 2002 Audi A2, 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 (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A2. (155 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A2. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi A2 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi A2 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:

2002 Audi A2 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
Make Audi Mercedes-Benz
Model A2 E
Year Released 2002 1996
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1598 cc 4266 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 108 HP 275 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 155 Nm 400 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 76.5 mm 89.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86.9 mm 84 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 12.0:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 202 km/hour 250 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.8 seconds 6.6 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1070 kg 2052 kg
Vehicle Length 3830 mm 4800 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1560 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 42 L 80 L