1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2003 Audi A3
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 225 kg more than 2003 Audi A3.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2003 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 has manual transmission. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 2003 Audi A3 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
Model | 240 | A3 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2398 cc | 1967 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 137 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1340 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |