2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Audi S3
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi S3 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 362 kg more than 2003 Audi S3.
Because 2003 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi S3. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | E | S3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
