2006 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 230 kg more than 2012 Audi A3.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mercedes-Benz E | 2012 Audi A3 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
Model | E | A3 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 161 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1460 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1763 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1422 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 55 L |