1996 Audi A3 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S (297 HP) has 197 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 676 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S (463 Nm) has 327 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | S |
Year Released | 1996 | 1990 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5547 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 297 HP |
Torque | 136 Nm | 463 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 94.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2950 mm |