2006 Audi A3 vs. 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 5,025 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 (238 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (105 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450. 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, 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 (402 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 450 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 5025 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 402 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
