1996 Audi A3 vs. 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,307 cc (6 cylinders), 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
Because 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230 (216 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 230 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 63 L |
