2002 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 391 kg more than 2002 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 380 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2940 mm |
