2008 Audi A3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz E. (120 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 145 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mercedes-Benz E. (270 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 2146 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
