2002 Audi A3 vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 (231 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 335 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 1982 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 (405 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A3. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2860 mm |
