1996 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (100 HP) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 251 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (137 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 72 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2800 mm |
