1985 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2010 Audi A3
To start off, 2010 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 100 kg more than 2010 Audi A3.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz S | 2010 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | A3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4293 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2578 mm |
