2006 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 5 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 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 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 44 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (600 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1836 kg |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.6 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.4 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |
