2004 Audi A3 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 170 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1986 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | S |
Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2950 mm |