2003 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A3 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | 280 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 241 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1475 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |