1996 Audi A3 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 420 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | 280 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 156 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2940 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 90 L |