2008 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 125 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 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.8 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
