2008 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 350 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.
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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1805 kg |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
