2005 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (231 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 37 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A3 (330 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 88.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2810 mm |
