1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2003 Audi S3
To start off, 2003 Audi S3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2003 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 477 kg more than 2003 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 (310 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2003 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | 300 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5220 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 62 L |
