1996 Audi A3 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP) has 119 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 466 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 420 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 219 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2460 mm |
