2002 Audi S3 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350
To start off, 2002 Audi S3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. (200 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 weights approximately 172 kg more than 2002 Audi S3.
Because 2002 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi S3. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi S3 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | 350 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1423 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2830 mm |
