2006 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 284 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 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. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Audi A3 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | 380 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3818 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 215 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2940 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |