2002 Audi S3 vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2002 Audi S3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (130 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi S3 weights approximately 83 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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, 2002 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (198 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi S3 | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | 230 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1423 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
