2004 Audi A3 vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380
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 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,839 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (204 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 405 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 380. 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 380 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2860 mm |
