2004 Audi A3 vs. 1993 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz E (376 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 260 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz E (551 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 321 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1993 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 5956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 551 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
