2002 Audi A3 vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. (109 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 245 kg more than 2002 Audi A3.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Audi A3 (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2810 mm |
