2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (507 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 367 more horse power than 2011 Audi A3. (140 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A3 weights approximately 360 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 311 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi A3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2011 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2011 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | E | A3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 507 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 631 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 13.1 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 19.6 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
