1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2003 Audi S3
To start off, 2003 Audi S3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,305 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (109 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi S3 weights approximately 48 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2003 Audi S3 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
Model | 230 | S3 |
Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2305 cc | 1779 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 222 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 185 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1423 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2530 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |