2009 Audi S3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Audi S3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 7,410 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (612 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 360 more horse power than 2009 Audi S3. (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 595 kg more than 2009 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (848 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 517 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi S3. (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi S3. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi S3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | E |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 7410 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 612 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 848 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 325 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 2050 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 75 L |
