2004 Audi A3 vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. (123 HP @ 4350 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. (250 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 15.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
