2004 Audi A3 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. (245 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 43 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 (399 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 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 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 245 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 399 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1608 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2460 mm |
