2004 Audi A3 vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500
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 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500. (231 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 (405 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| 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 | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
