2006 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 500 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
