2004 Audi A3 vs. 1977 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1977 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 200 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 1977 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1977 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1977 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 85 L |
