2004 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 270 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 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 (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 has manual transmission. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Audi A3 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | 240 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2398 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 21.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1565 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5360 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |