2006 Audi A3 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Audi A3 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | S |
Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
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 | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 226 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2870 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 85 L |