1975 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 6,834 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S (283 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1140 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S (549 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 401 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1975 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | A3 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6834 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 283 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 549 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2420 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2580 mm |
