2008 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 35 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | E |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.4:1 |
Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1480 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |