2004 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 4 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 430 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.2 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.6 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
