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 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. (181 HP @ 5500 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 310 kg more than 2006 Audi A3.
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, 2006 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. (250 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
