2006 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2460 mm |
