1993 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2011 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 430 kg more than 2011 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Audi A3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1993 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz S (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | A3 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
