1996 Audi A3 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 (195 HP) has 95 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 621 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 (358 Nm) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | 300 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4519 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 195 HP |
Torque | 136 Nm | 358 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1755 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5010 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |