1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 vs. 2009 Audi A3

To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (326 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 710 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.

Compare all specifications:

1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 2009 Audi A3
Make Mercedes-Benz Audi
Model 500 A3
Year Released 1991 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4971 cc 1390 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 326 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 480 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 1500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 12.5:1
Top Speed 249 km/hour 203 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 6.7 seconds 9.3 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 2012 kg 1302 kg
Vehicle Length 5220 mm 4250 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 3150 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 55 L