2009 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,604 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (174 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 900 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (425 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | E |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2604 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 174 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 425 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88.3 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4860 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |