2008 Audi S3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Audi S3 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 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (343 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2008 Audi S3. (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 221 kg more than 2008 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi S3 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (480 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi S3. (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi S3. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 343 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1676 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
