2003 Audi A3 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 32 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, 2003 Audi A3 (246 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. (200 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 332 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi A3 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, 2003 Audi A3 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, 2003 Audi A3 (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. 2003 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 has manual transmission. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A3 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | 350 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3188 cc | 3499 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 246 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 286 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 65.8 mm |
Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1548 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4380 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2470 mm |