1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2002 Audi A3
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 265 kg more than 2002 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2002 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2002 Audi A3 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
Model | 280 | A3 |
Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 174 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 233 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 19.0:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1295 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |