2005 Audi A3 vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 295 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 95 L |
