2001 Audi A3 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2001 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 (245 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 326 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 (399 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A3. (330 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A3. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 has automatic transmission and 2001 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2001 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 245 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 399 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
