2004 Audi A3 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (160 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A3 (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Audi A3 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | 280 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2778 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 224 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 82 L |