2004 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 220 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 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.6 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.9 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
