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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 255 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A3 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, 2006 Audi A3 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 34 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 | 1982 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 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 | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
