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 50 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (252 HP @ 6300 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 380 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.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 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 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1945 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 | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
