1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 (219 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2011 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2011 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 380. 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi A3. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 2011 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2011 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | 380 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 219 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
