1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2005 Audi A3
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2005 Audi A3.
Because 2005 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 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, 2005 Audi A3 (330 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 2005 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | 380 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
