2006 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 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 275 kg more than 2006 Audi A3.
Because 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
