2002 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 510 kg more than 2002 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, 2002 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 (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A3. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 233 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
