1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2001 Audi S3
To start off, 2001 Audi S3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi S3 (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 80 kg more than 2001 Audi S3.
Because 2001 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Audi S3 (270 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2001 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | S3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 42 L |
