2008 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,685 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (176 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 440 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
