2004 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 5 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1625 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 80 L |
