2012 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 345 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2012 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2012 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Audi A3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | E |
Year Released | 2012 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | AWD |
Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1805 kg |
Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |