2004 Audi A3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 3 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz E is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2007 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
