2002 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,224 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (140 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 230 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (479 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | E | A3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3224 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 479 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| 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 | 1735 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
