1989 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 170 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | A3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2599 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2580 mm |
