2007 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 330 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4820 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 | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
