2006 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 5 kg more than 2006 Audi A3.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
