2006 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 3 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 204 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
