2004 Audi A3 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450
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 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. (225 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 450 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 4519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 378 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
