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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. (221 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 185 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 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 | 3196 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
