2003 Audi A3 vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 190 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 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
