2004 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 7 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 417 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 737 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 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 551 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1942 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 80 L |
