2012 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 250 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (531 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 17.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
