2009 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2011 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1370 kg more than 2011 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi A3. 2009 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | E | A3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
