2000 Audi S3 vs. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2000 Audi S3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Audi S3 (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 264 kg more than 2000 Audi S3.
Because 2000 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Audi S3 will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 270 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Audi S3 | 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1794 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 70 L |
