2003 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 335 kg more than 2003 Audi A3.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A3 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | 300 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 87 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
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 | 1630 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |