2004 Audi A3 vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 (287 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 weights approximately 590 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400. 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 (410 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 400 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 287 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3050 mm |
