2003 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 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 117 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 490 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 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 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2003 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:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
