2009 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 540 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2002 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 2002 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 2002 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 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1570 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 Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
