2009 Audi A3 vs. 1994 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1994 Mercedes-Benz E. (120 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1994 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 266 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1994 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 1994 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mercedes-Benz E. (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mercedes-Benz E. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1994 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 1994 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1994 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
