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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. (181 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 155 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 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, 2004 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. (250 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
