2004 Audi A3 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 (188 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 295 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 1990 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 1990 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Audi A3 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | 300 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2962 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 188 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 155 Nm | 260 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1520 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2940 mm |