1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2011 Audi A3.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | 280 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2578 mm |
