1981 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2001 Audi A3
To start off, 2001 Audi A3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 635 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G 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 A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. 2001 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1981 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | 2001 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | G | A3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2660 mm |
